Beginning of a Journey
Starting college is like arriving at an all-you-can-eat buffet—you don’t know where to start, but everything looks so good that you just want to try it all! That’s exactly what it’s been like for me as a freshman at Hope College. Here I am, only three months in, and already finding myself fully immersed in clubs and events, each one offering something new and exciting. From deep discussions on economics in the Markets & Morality Club to practicing public speaking with the TEDx Talk club, Hope’s club scene is packed with ways to connect, learn, and just enjoy the journey.
Joining a club here isn’t just about adding something to a resume—it’s about finding your people, exploring what really lights you up, and even stepping into things you’d never imagined yourself doing. The first time I walked into a club meeting, I didn’t know what to expect or if I’d find my place. But soon, these clubs became like second homes, where I could be myself, share ideas, and just have a good time with others who “get it.” I’ve realized that college life is just as much about these experiences as it is about classes.
So, let me take you through some of my favorite spots on this journey so far and share what I’ve been diving into since day one at Hope!
Major-related Club
As an Economics and Computer Science major, I naturally got drawn into the Markets & Morality Club, which brings together students interested in all things economics and ethics. This club is like a mix of thought-provoking discussions, movie nights (we just watched Undivided Us), and opportunities to hear famous speakers. Last month, we even had a mini-conference that gave us the chance to dive deep into the ideas shaping our world.
And, as they say, “Learning never exhausts the mind” (thanks, Leonardo da Vinci!), but coffee and free snacks definitely help! It’s been an amazing way to explore my major outside the classroom.
TEDx Talk Club: Practicing My Stage Presence
Getting involved in the TEDx Talk club here at Hope has been an adventure. Believe it or not, Hope has its own TEDx event, which is amazing for students like me who love to share ideas and connect with people in a unique way. Right now, I’m in training to become a speaker—a whole new kind of challenge, and honestly, it’s both nerve-wracking and exciting.
It’s funny because back home, I had a chance to speak at Westminster University in Uzbekistan. Standing in front of a crowd was intimidating, but it gave me a taste of how incredible it feels to connect with people and maybe even inspire them. Being here at Hope, though, feels different. The environment is so encouraging, and I feel like I’m part of a community that’s genuinely interested in what each person has to share. By the way, the topic of my speech was “Phenomenon of our Future.”You can search for it in the TED talk official channel.
TEDx at Hope has also been a great way to tackle my nerves (they definitely deserve their own TED talk!). Every time I stand up to practice, I feel a bit braver. Today is November 1, and there are still several stages I’ll have to go through. For now, I hope that I will get a final decision and become a speaker at Hope.
Outdoor Adventure Club: Fresh Air and Fun
For something totally different, I joined the Outdoor Adventure Club, where the motto seems to be “Get out there!” From hiking trips to beach days, this club’s all about exploring Michigan’s beautiful outdoors. After spending most of the week studying, getting some fresh air with friends is the best stress reliever. Who knew that rock climbing or kayaking could make you forget about assignments, if only for a few hours?
Business Club: Lunch and Learning
Recently, I also went to a few Business Club meetings. It’s not all business suits and spreadsheets—think casual lunches where we get together, swap ideas, and talk about what’s going on in the world of business. Plus, the best way to network is over lunch, right? Meeting people who share my interests and goals has been inspiring, and I’m excited to see where it leads.
Why Clubs Make Hope Feel Like Home
At the end of the day, these clubs are more than just activities; they’re what make Hope College feel like home. I’ve met people I never would’ve crossed paths with otherwise, and we’re all figuring out this college thing together. Whether we’re discussing economic theories, practicing speeches, or just hanging out in the great outdoors, there’s a sense of community and support that makes every experience more meaningful.
Wrapping up…
So, if you’re new to Hope (or just haven’t explored the club scene yet), take the plunge! There’s a club for every interest, from deep discussions on morality to weekend hikes. As a freshman, joining these clubs has helped me make friends, learn, and even laugh at myself (looking at you, rock climbing mishap). In the end, college isn’t just about classes—it’s about these unforgettable experiences and the people you share them with.