Bardians Take the Fall 2025 Club and TLS Fair by Storm

Last Saturday could only be described in one word: dreary. But while rain poured from the sky and tornado warnings lit up students’ phones, the campus center couldn’t have been more vibrant. Rain or shine, the annual club fair was in full swing, and despite the torrential downpour outside, nothing could dampen Bardians’ spirits. The energy in the building was palpable as students made their rounds through the packed halls of the campus center, laughing, mingling, and most importantly, signing up for TLS projects and clubs.

You name it, student leaders had a club or TLS project for it- from campus classics such as Brothers@Bard and The SCALE Project to Chai Night and Cupcake Design, there was a table for everyone in attendance. I had the pleasure of talking to Jude Ferguson ‘27, head of the Rock Climbing Club, about his experience at the fair on Saturday.

“I think the fair really brought people together,” said Ferguson, an Architecture major who is in his second semester of leading the Rock Climbing Club. “Because Bard has a smaller student body, we have so much more space to create a sense of community that other colleges don’t. Showing up at events like the club fair helps build that space,” he reflected. “Also, it’s fun! It’s a great way to try something new, or meet new people that you might not otherwise.”

And with almost 140 new signups for the Rock Climbing Club, Ferguson definitely met some new faces on campus. Students lined up at his table, waiting patiently for a pen to become available to add their name to the signup sheet. “In all honesty, it was a little hectic,” he said, “We had the fair inside this year because it was pouring rain and there was a tornado warning. But it was still fun, and people were definitely excited. Everyone was very chatty- it was great having the opportunity to talk to new people.”

As I threaded my way through the crowd at the campus center, I made a stop at Ferguson’s table, where climbing harnesses, shoes, and chalk were on display. I added my name to the Rock Climbing Club signup sheet, among many other clubs of interest.

If you want to become more involved on or off campus and build a stronger community, Bard’s dynamic student-led TLS and club scene is your one-stop shop. If you missed it this time, make sure to catch it next semester. Better yet, stop by the TLS or Student Activities office to learn about ways to get involved on campus. Rain or shine, tornado warnings or clear skies, passionate project leaders and clubheads like Ferguson will be there to welcome you to their community with open arms.

Post Date: 09-12-2025