Navigating the Enormous Activities Fair at UCLA: A Comprehensive Guide

The Enormous Activities Fair (EAF) at UCLA serves as a vibrant showcase for the university's diverse student organizations and resources. Organized by UCLA Student Organizations, Leadership & Engagement, and supported by the Undergraduate Students Association Council’s Campus Events Commission and Cultural Affairs Commissions, this annual event provides students with opportunities to explore their interests, connect with like-minded individuals, and enrich their UCLA experience. Held annually, the EAF is a cornerstone of True Bruin Welcome Week, an initiative designed to support new students in their transition to UCLA.

Discovering a World of Opportunities

The EAF presents a wide array of student organizations and school departments, typically exceeding 500 participants. These groups set up booths in high-traffic areas like Wilson and Dickson Plazas, creating a dynamic environment where students can learn about various clubs, activities, and resources available on campus. The fair is designed to encourage students to join clubs and immerse themselves in student life.

A Glimpse into the Fair Experience

New and returning students alike attend this event, seeking to explore the diverse range of opportunities UCLA offers. Nayeli Perez, a first-year human biology and society student, noted that the fair allowed her to explore medical and cultural clubs aligned with her interests. Andrew Lyu, a first-year business economics student, appreciated the variety of niche clubs, highlighting the numerous dance groups and options related to law and community service.

Samantha Lyle, a third-year geography/environmental studies and political science student, has attended the fair every year since her first year, initially to find the Model United Nations at UCLA club and subsequently to represent the club and explore new opportunities. Lyle emphasizes the importance of exploring the entire event and not being intimidated by the crowds.

Navigating the Fair

While the sheer number of clubs can be overwhelming, students can find a club that resonates with them. Last year, signs on Dickson Plaza categorized the clubs to aid navigation. Faithyn Chukundah, a third-year psychobiology student, views the EAF as an event worth revisiting each year, providing an opportunity to branch out and discover new interests.

Highlighting Student Organizations

Each organization brings its unique flair to the fair, using colorful signs, engaging displays, and free merchandise to attract attention. Emma Kelly, a fourth-year physiological science student and head of Hooligan Theater’s IT department, emphasized the club's inclusivity, encouraging students with varying levels of experience to join. Santos, tabling for Untitled Theatre Company, highlighted the organization's role in helping students develop written works for theater.

A Cappella Groups

A cappella groups have a dedicated section at the EAF, allowing students to browse their tables in person. Auditions for these groups take place during the first two weeks of the fall quarter, with a decision day on October 5.

True Bruin Welcome Week

The EAF is an integral part of True Bruin Welcome Week, which aims to support new students in their transition to UCLA. In addition to the EAF, Bruins can participate in events such as the UCLA Westwood Block Party, Bruin Bash, and Transferpalooza. True Bruin Welcome Week typically takes place in the latter half of September.

Additional Campus Events

To kick off the school year, the Student Committee of the Arts (SCA) and ASUCLA present an array of student arts and artists throughout Ackerman Student Union.

Dialogue Society at UCLA: A Case Study

The Dialogue Society at UCLA exemplifies the type of organization students can discover at the EAF. This group focuses on fostering intergenerational connections and providing opportunities for dialogue and personal growth.

Passion Projects and Community Engagement

The Dialogue Society engages in various passion projects, such as intergenerational video interviews with residents of Piedmont Senior Apartments as part of the EngAge program. These projects aim to change perceptions of aging by showcasing the vitality and passions of older adults. The society also collaborates with other organizations, such as Cooking for Souls at UCLA, to provide meals to underprivileged communities.

Events and Activities

The Dialogue Society hosts a variety of events, including:

Origami Sessions: Fun and creative sessions where participants can learn the art of origami.
Talent Shows: Showcasing musical performances, live art tutorials, and other talents.
Nutrition Events: Interactive sessions focused on healthy eating habits.
Film Screenings and Discussions: Screening independent films and engaging in discussions.
Senior Outreach Programs: Performances and activities for seniors at local facilities.
Relaxation and Fun Nights: Events designed to help students relax and recharge before finals.
Discussions on Positive and Negative Thinking: Exploring the impact of mindset on well-being.
Guest Speaker Sessions: Featuring UCLA alumni and other professionals sharing their experiences and insights.
Movie Nights: Screening popular films with snacks and refreshments.
Musical Performances and Activities: Engaging in music for stress relief and improved productivity.
Communication Workshops: Discussing effective communication skills and practicing through interactive games.
Mini-Fall Fests: Celebrating fall with activities like pumpkin carving and discussions on connecting with others.
Motivational Speaker Events: Featuring speakers who share insights on motivation, inspiration, and success.
Vision Board Workshops: Providing materials for participants to create their own vision boards.

Book Discussions

The Dialogue Society also hosts book discussions on a variety of topics, including:

Oh, the Places You’ll Go! by Dr. Seuss: Discussing life’s ups and downs and finding success within.
Flatland by Edwin A. Abbott: Exploring themes of perspective and dimension through a satirical novella.
A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park: Sharing a true story of resilience and perseverance in Sudan.
Strengthsfinder 2.0 by Tom Rath: Discovering and developing personal strengths for a more productive and positive life.
Emotional Intelligence: A Practical Guide by Dr. David Walton: Understanding and managing emotions for effective communication and relationships.
Crucial Conversations Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler: Learning tools for effective communication in high-stakes situations.
Are You Really Listening?: Keys to Successful Communication by Paul Donoghue and Mary E. Siegel: Improving listening skills for better communication.

Additional Resources and Opportunities

Beyond the EAF, UCLA offers a variety of other resources and opportunities for students to get involved and make a difference.

TechUp

TechUp is a nonprofit organization that aims to bridge the digital divide by providing computer education to individuals experiencing homelessness or returning from incarceration.

DIG Produce and the CPO Food Closet

Produce from the DIG (presumably a campus garden) goes to the CPO Food Closet at UCLA, providing fresh food to students in need.

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