By: Ella Kate Harris
Clubs at Central for the past few years have been very different. With all the online/in-person obstacles, clubs haven’t had as much participation as previous years. This was a result of not attending events including conferences or meetings. This year clubs are starting back in person for the first time in two years. School clubs are one of the best ways to get involved with Central outside of the classroom. Whether you join a club just for fun or to learn something new, it’s essential to participate in something you’re interested in. This year clubs are going to be more involved with events outside of school and hope to have more participation from all students.
One of our clubs that has gained more attention recently is Youth in Government/Model United Nations. Both MUN and YIG have their own conference but are joined together in the same club. I interviewed Sally Gaither, president of the club, to share what she had to say and her personal experiences:
Q: What are some important aspects of this club and why should people join?
Sally: YIG is very important because it teaches you about the government… it teaches skills in a ton of different areas; not just politics, but leadership, public speaking, and thinking critically. There are a ton of things that come with joining YIG, not necessarily just debate. You also get to go to a really fun conference, which I think is really important, with the school and have fun with all your friends.
Q: What do you enjoy most about the club?
Sally: I love getting to see people break out of their shell when they go to the conferences each year; I know that happened to me freshman year. Just seeing other people going into it really shy, and then they get up there to say their bill or to debate and then it’s like they’re a different person and I think it’s cool.
Q: How has this club benefited you in a real situation or outside of the club?
Sally: I fell in love with YIG and that made me realize that’s what I wanted to do with my life. I wanted to study global studies and international relations in college because of MUN and how much I love it. I think it can help you figure out what you like in life.
YIG/MUN would be a great club to join, not just if you like politics, but to do something outside of your comfort zone. It’s a good way to meet new people from other schools and gain leadership positions at the conferences. If you have any questions about the club or want to join, make sure to attend the meetings during A club rotation and join the BAND app for notifications at: https://band.us/n/aca778hbA2beR
My next interview was with Nelly Brimah. Nelly is involved in many clubs as the executive president in Student Council along with Key Club president. Student Council is a big part of Central and one of the best ways to get more involved. Key club is another great club to join to help the community and participate in fundraisers and service projects.
Q: How has your experience been so far as an officer of this club?
Nelly: Being student body president is a little overwhelming at times, but it’s really fun. I think it builds character, discipline, and forces you to step out of your comfort zone.
My experience [in key club] has been pretty good. I feel very prepared, but I think that’s mainly because I have a great team supporting me and behind me.
Q: What are the most important aspects of your club and why should people join?
Nelly: I think helping fellow students and working to embody what Central Magnet stands for. It’s important to be in [Student Council] because it teaches you important leadership skills you will use later on in life. Student Council really prepares you for when you have to go into the real world and make real decisions that impact real people.
The most important aspects of [key] club is working to boost the environment of Central Magnet… and all of Tennessee. It is important to Key Club to make our communities better places in terms of positivity, kindness, generosity, etc.
Q: Why is this club important to you?
Nelly: I think it [Student Council] really aligns with my morals… and what I hope to achieve in the future. It’s really a place where I can learn from people who have years of experience and being in a setting where you have a lot of influence in what goes on in your school. That’s really important to me because I like to have a voice, and I feel as though Student Council brings that to me.
When I joined [Key Club] freshman year I really wasn’t sure what to expect, especially as a new Central student, I was scared and confused. This club really improved my life… because this club really helped me grow, develop, and form great friendships.
Key Club also takes an annual trip to Dollywood for $50 on October 16th, open to all members in the club. Key Club holds many fundraisers and attempts to better the community along with fun events such as Dollywood. You can join the remind for updates with the code @77h69fb.
Although you cannot join Student Council this year, it is always a great option to think about for next year with elections in the spring. Student Council gets to be involved with all school activities including pep rallies, spirit weeks, and class shirt designs.
These clubs are just a few of many at Central. Make sure to check the club rotation schedule for any clubs you may be interested in: https://4.files.edl.io/3d18/08/18/22/210603-f8db5dff-cab1-41a7-bf8c-63b32a38610e.pdf
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