Club rush on Sept. 10 and 12 introduced new and returning students to clubs on campus. Create for Kids and the Aliso Niguel Theatre Company are among the many student-run clubs helping students get involved and build a sense of community on campus. Events like Club Rush offer opportunities for students to discover clubs they may not have otherwise known about.
An example of one of the clubs at club rush is Create for Kids. this club is dedicated to brightening the lives of children in hospitals through handmade cards. Club president Ira Adnaik, a senior, said she started the Aliso Niguel chapter to combine creativity with community impact.
“I wanted to expose people to how art is something people love doing, and it’s a super easy way to make a difference,” Adnaik said. “I also started it because it’s feasible within the school campus, within Ms. Terhardt’s class, and it’s an easy way to earn hours.”
Adnaik emphasizes that CFK is accessible to everyone, regardless of artistic experience. The club encourages students to join with friends and enjoy giving back in a supportive environment.
“You don’t need art experience, and you should join with your friends for more fun,” she said.
The cards made in CFK are intended to uplift children without being patronizing. The club focuses on spreading joy and positive messages in a meaningful, respectful way.
CFK meets once a month on Wednesdays during lunch in Room 410 with club advisor Ms. Terhardt. Each card counts for 30 minutes of community service, offering a low-commitment yet impactful way for students to contribute to their community.
“If they want an experience that is heartwarming and the outcome is good for both the people making cards and receiving them,” Adnaik said, “this is the club to join.”
Another example is the Aliso Niguel Theatre Company (ANTC) gives students an outlet to express themselves through performance while learning leadership, teamwork and responsibility. Keilani Meyer (12), club president, said the group aims to go beyond the stage.
“We started our club to promote theater and to teach students important skills that don’t just apply to theater, but to everything in their lives,” Meyer said.
Club members participate in acting, stage design and behind-the-scenes production work. The collaborative process of putting on a show helps build a strong work ethic and sense of accountability.
With around 70 members, inclusivity is a core value of the group. “It doesn’t matter your age, gender or career path, everybody can join,” Meyer said.
For many students, high school can be an isolating experience. ANTC offers a place where students can feel seen, supported and accepted. The club helps build self-confidence and provides a creative space to relieve academic stress.
ANTC’s next company meeting is scheduled for Sept. 26, when the club will announce its spring musical. Meetings also include games and bonding activities that help members connect and unwind.
Feeling like an outsider at school can be difficult, but finding a club to be a part of can make a big difference. Clubs like CFK and ANTC give students the opportunity to explore new interests, give back to others, and form lasting connections.
High school is a time for growth, exploration and community. Joining a club is one way students can not only help others, but also grow into the best versions of themselves.
