The games, cheers and good-natured fun that was so much a part of York's Frosh Welcome Week at the Keele and Glendon campuses will wrap today with York Day, the official closing event of the University's orientation activities. York Day is an information fair which showcases student clubs, government, and associations as well as selected student services. It runs all day at the Tait McKenzie Field House Gym on the Keele campus.
Right: More than 100 student clubs will showcase their information at this year's York Day information fair. Pictured are representatives from the York Fencing Club.
"York Day is both the cap-off to the social orientation program, and the beginning of the active season of student organizations' activities on campus," said Brian Poser, manager, student success & retention. "York Day is a pan-University event involving more than 100 or our 270-plus student organizations and approximately 25 campus services and partners."
The event provides an opportunity for all York students to connect with fellow students involved in the many clubs and associations at York, also included in the event are a number of campus services and the York Federation of Students.
"Put simply, York Day is a great way for students to come out, learn about opportunities for engaging in campus life, enjoy some free food and entertainment and maybe win a nice door prize. Students and staff who volunteer by manning the event tables all share the common purpose of helping students, especially new students, learn about their organizations," said Poser.
Left: York Day events have always received a lot of interest from students.
While Poser says many other universities host similar information fairs, the positive, student-centred vibe at York is unique. "In terms of innovations, York Day features student-driven entertainment that packs a positive message and this year, organizers are working with York student Mike Prosserman of Unity@York (a York club) to bring in a variety of street performers – including hacky-sakers, beat boxers, contortionists and break dancers – who help spread the group's message of reducing violence in the lives of youth in our communities. York Day will also feature 'Experiencing the Possible', a home-grown drama that brings to life the issues students face when moving to university."
Sponsored by York's Centre for Student Community & Leadership Development, preparations have been made for 1,500 visitors.
"York Day is a launching pad of sorts for our clubs and student organizations. It is a great opportunity for them to recruit new members and promote their upcoming events," said Poser. "Another exciting event for our student organizations is our Club and Student Organizations Conference on Sept. 29. It offers a great opportunity for student leaders to develop, share, and improve upon the skills they'll need to be a successful leader this year – and for many years to come."
For more information, visit the York Day Web site. For more information on the conference, visit the Club and Student Organizations Conference Web site.