As the new semester springs into action, new clubs have started to make their introduction to College of DuPage (COD). COD is home to multiple organizations that can appeal to each and every student here, through interests, passions, and career paths. In order to promote new organizations, COD hosted its semesterly Student Life Fair on Jan. 28, 10 a.m to 1 p.m. The Student Life Fair gives these organizations the opportunity to promote themselves and spark interest in both new and returning students.
“Honestly, I had a lot of fun at the Student Life Fair. I always enjoy these kinds of events where students get to know a lot of the opportunities and fun activities COD has to offer,” Koi Briones – student and officer of Sobremesa (a spanish social club) stated. “As an officer being able to talk to some students and connect with people I’ve never met was exciting and fun.”
Not only are new students joining COD this semester, but new organizations have emerged as well. The fair served as an area for students to explore involvement opportunities, ask questions and connect with peers who share similar goals. In the SSC (Student Services Center) Atrium, the main hallway welcomed students to the interactive event. As soon as you entered the Atrium, booths were decorated with eye-catching posters that showcased each organization’s identity. Interactive games and QR codes invited students to participate and learn more, drawing them in with hands-on experiences. As students explored the rows, popcorn was served by the OLs (student volunteers), and music filled the hallway, creating a lively and fun experience.
While established organizations can be found on the Student Life webpage, several new groups are making their debut this spring semester.
One of the newly formed organizations is AIE (Artificial Intelligence Explorers), created by Mohammed Ayman and Hassan Khan – first year students at COD. To see more information about AIE, check out their Instagram page aie_cod. AIE is dedicated to making Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) accessible, ethical and hands-on for everyone at COD.
“AIE focuses on learning how AI tools work, practicing responsible and ethical use, teaching practical, real-world skills that come from credible sources such as guest speakers and research-based resources, and creating a welcoming community for students from all majors,” Ayman said.
Ayman also explained the motivation behind starting the club.
“We saw a gap at COD: students were surrounded by AI tools but didn’t have a space to actually learn how to use them responsibly, creatively and confidently,” he said. “A lot of people feel intimidated by AI or think it’s only for certain majors. We wanted to create a community where anyone, regardless of major or experience, could explore AI, ask questions in a judgment-free zone and grow together.”
While AIE is one of the many new organizations making an impact this semester, it is far from the only group students can get involved with at COD. COD offers a wide range of clubs and organizations that cater to academic interests, cultural backgrounds, creative outlets, and social causes. Students interested in getting involved are encouraged to explore the full list of organizations available on the Student Life webpage or attend future campus events to discover where they best fit.
With both established and newly established organizations represented, students were given a clear reminder that campus life extends far beyond the classroom. As the semester continues, these clubs provide valuable opportunities for leadership, learning, and community building. As the spring semester starts, check out the Student Life webpage or go to the Office of Student Life (SSC 1200).
