Anteater Involvement Fair
The Anteater Involvement Fair (AIF) is a place to showcase our 620+ clubs at UCI’s campus! Yes, we have that many clubs, which means there is something for you to do! AIF takes place in Aldrich Park, our 21 acre park in the middle of the campus, and everyone comes out to booth: from Greek Life to Club Sports, AIF is the way to get involved and see what UCI has to offer.
As a first year, I was in awe of the AIF - I walked with my resident advisor and my hallmates to Aldrich Park, determined to get involved. There were people everywhere; the sound of laughter and people shouting about their clubs filled the air. I took a deep breath as the wall of friendly faces and handshakes started to reach me. Hesitantly, I approached a booth, and dove in. My first year, I gathered as many flyers, free gear, and candy as possible while signing up for newsletters and club meeting reminders. At AIF, I signed up to hear more information about Global Connect @ UCI, my very first involvement on campus (unknowingly, writing down my email address on their recruitment sheet was signing my soul over for four years, but that’s beside the point).
I have always stressed to my residents in both my years as an RA that the Anteater Involvement Fair was the most important part of Welcome Week; thus, most RAs walk their residents to the Anteater Involvement Fair as one of their first programs. Entering the park with my residents and letting them explore is always incredible; I saw my residents start off in packs, unsure of where to go, but feel comfortable immediately after stopping by the first booths. While my residents are off exploring clubs, I always head over to the main stage where legendary dance groups like MCIA, CADC, and Ballet Folklorico perform. After 4 years at the AIF, here’s my advice:
Bring a small backpack - there will most likely be free stuff!
Come with an open mind - UCI has something for everyone, so don’t be afraid to talk to the boothers
Sign up for everything - you can always unsubscribe!
Also, clubs bring their dogs. If that’s not enough motivation to go, I don’t know what is.
