Does any one have ideas for a first student club meeting ?

[Renic D]

April 16 I am having the first meeting of the International relations club at my school. I had a few ideas but I was wondering what you guys could spark up here on . For those of you who don't know what international relations are , its pretty much countries and the way they communicate, for example meeting new people , traveling , donating money to UNICEF , etc.

I don't know whether I should do for a great club intro so people keep on coming , ideas anyone ?

[Evil Goodness]

strippers!

[Cindy]

Hi Renic,

This sounds like a super wonderful idea!!! One important way to decide what to do in your meeting(s) is to identify the goals and purpose for the club. Is this club designed to help international students ease into life on your campus, or is this club more for opening the eyes of the average American student on campus? Or is this club designed for majors in international relations?

Some ideas for fun and informative meetings:

First of all, find out what your group is looking for when they meet. Do they want a more formal club or more laid back? I think a super impressive first meeting will generate continued excitement. I think opportunities for your members to get involved in something is important. Maybe you could support UNICEF and have fund raisers, etc.

However, in the beginning...

Food always brings the kids in. Is there a budget for treats? If so, have them! Free food is big for college events.

Create a Facebook and Twitter Page for your group. Urge students in your major to befriend you! You can reach a large group quickly so ideas travel fast and don't have to wait for next month's meeting (or next week's). Send fan requests too!

Do you have an international student office on campus? If so, contact them and ask them about which nationality most comes to your school. Ask them for a list of common complaints from their students. Maybe a panel of international students could answer questions for your group. They could answer questions about their native schools, their economy, commerce, etc for your group. Ask them about business customs, travel, etc.

Many professors like to be involved in things like this. Do you have a faculty advisor for this club? If not, you can approach a well-liked or well-trusted professor and see what kinds of help/presentations/ ideas they may have.

It sounds like you could address international business -- answer questions like "How does Chinese trade affect the American market?" An econ professor may give you great food for thought and ideas for activities.

I hope these thoughts help a bit.

Cindy