At first glance, Club Rush on Friday, September 5, looked like a cluttered commons constructed of folding tables, colorful posters, and candy bribes. But beneath the noise was something deeper–doorways into communities, passions, and friendships. What seemed like cluttered commons was, in reality, lifelines to belonging.
Rocky has 55 recognized clubs, each one its own community connecting through their commonalities.
For music-oriented students who might not conform to Rocky’s classical music program there is Guitar Club. The club meets in the aquarium at lunch on Tuesdays. Although the club is student run, their adviser Mr. Reedy sees the club as a great way to connect.
He said the club is “a way for students who are interested in playing guitar to come and play, to learn from each other.”
It is open to everyone, even if you don’t play. Club members play songs, write music, and sometimes play together outside of school. Through sharing music, members form friendships beyond the chords they play. It’s not just about the guitar, it’s about finding the people who share your rhythm and are willing to create something with you.
Possibly Rocky’s fastest growing club, Women In STEM, is a space for individuals to connect through their interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The club focuses on involvement across all of the stem fields, and they meet every other Friday, starting September 12, in the Media Center.
Mrs. Weeks, the club’s sponsor, says that although “people can see stem and go ‘oh, that sounds kind of nerdy,’” in reality “it’s a lot of fun. We have an amazing group that comes together to support each other.”
Women in STEM connect through STEM activities and go on field trips to learn from experts and to inspire others. Women in STEM isn’t just a club, it’s a supporting group uplifting students, helping them build their futures.
With an aptitude for advocacy, Black Student Union (or BSU) is a club promoting black history and inclusivity, while also forming their own connections. During their Friday lunch meetings in room 332, BSU works with Mr. Powell to promote inclusivity for all, focusing on black students.
Keri Calmes, a member of BSU described the club’s purpose as “making a community, making awareness so we are all seen as equal.” She also spoke to their community. “Low key, we like, hang out all day long, because we have created such a great environment.”
BSU is more than meetings, it’s a family supporting each other and creating space for authenticity and pride.
Both students in French classes and students simply interested in French culture can bond in French Club. The club meets every other Tuesday at lunch in room 402.
Katie Bly, French Club’s PR director, said “Everyone is very supportive of each other and I really joined French Club in the first place because of my friends.”
The club focuses on a fun energy while learning about French culture.
“It’s very chill and everyone is very kind and interested in learning. It’s a really great place.” French Club connects through cultures, forming friendship with curiosity and kindness.
Whether it is writing music as a team, going on field trips to experience what your group loves, advocating with like-minded people, or learning culture with friends, Rocky’s diverse selection of clubs offer opportunities for everyone. Sometimes, it can feel overwhelming in such an expansive and vibrant school.
It is important to remember to find your people, your community, because these are the experiences that will support and inspire you, making your high school experience a memorable one.
A list of clubs and information can be found on the Rocky website. https://rmh.psdschools.org/bol/activities/school-sponsored
