Whitman students gathered at the annual Clubs Night on Tuesday to discover a variety of clubs to join. From 7-9 p.m., student leaders showcased their clubs with tri-fold posters and colorful decorations. 

The PTSA organized the event, encouraging students to attend and sign up for clubs of interest to receive information on regular meetings and planned events. Additionally, they noted they will publish a digital clubs directory in MyMCPS Classroom.

Junior Kami Ejiogu—president of the Cards for Kids club that makes cards for pediatric patients in hospitals—said she was enthusiastic about the prospect of new members. 

“I’m excited because last year we were able to recruit over 30 people and make over 200 cards,” Ejiogu said. “I’m hoping this year we can reach 400 cards, and I know that’s possible with our new recruits.”

Several prominent clubs at Whitman returned to Clubs Night this year, including HOSA, DECA, Model UN and Speech and Debate, which allow members to participate in competitions and win awards. 

President of HOSA Olivia Zhao said her club provides an opportunity for students interested in healthcare-related fields to compete nationally. 

“We have competitions at the regional, state and international level,” Zhao said. “This is our second year at Whitman—last year two of our people made internationals, and three people made states.”

Due to inclement weather, the PTSA moved Clubs Night from the bus loop to the main gym, auxiliary gym and cafeteria. Separately, the students and their parents could enjoy food trucks located in the bus loop. 

Some clubs decorated their posters with lights, one set up a photo booth and another brought a pull-up bar for prospective members to try. 

Sophomore Aarav Rajani said Clubs Night is a good way to get involved with the many clubs Whitman offers, particularly for freshmen. 

“It’s a really good environment, very lively and exciting,” Rajani said. “And I think it’s especially good for the freshmen because they get to experience it for the first time.”