Members of the gamers club at the Manassas campus.

Despite being nestled in an area with an undeserved reputation of not having anything to do, the Manassas campus proved itself during its NOVA Day on Sept. 16. Students may have been interested in activities and events, but until NOVA Day, it seemed they had not yet been coaxed out of the woodwork. There were curious glances, sign-up sheets and the occasional swiping of a free morsel of chocolate from the odd table here and there, but most importantly there were signs of verve in the students of Manassas.

Among the established booths were a few newcomers. One first-time booth attracted interest for a women’s soccer team, while another advertised the up-and-coming Gamers’ Club.

Perhaps the most popular display, sporting a shiny reflective tablecloth, was the Manassas Student Connections. The MSC, as it is known, is a group geared toward bringing Manassas students together through free events and activities around the community.

The wonderful thing was that students were responding. Contrary to some belief, the students at the Manassas campus wouldn’t mind reading or working for a school newspaper, participating in uninhibited activities like drum circles or brushing up on robotics for upcoming competitions. While they’re at it, what’s the harm in tossing a football around, sampling an energy drink and trying to sucker one of the groups out of a free lollipop during downtime? Manassas students know there’s more to life than commuting and classes.

The fact is that there are connections to be made at the Manassas campus. Feeling like a part of a group is something that everyone needs once in a while. So, if students want to participate, what’s stopping them? Hopefully, this NOVA Day will convince those still hiding in the nooks and crannies that they can easily create meaningful experiences with those around them, if only they get involved. The NOVA campuses can help students reach their full potential with these endeavors, if students are willing to try.

By: Kevin Haralson

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