When Wendy Camp was a freshman, she felt like an outsider and wondered is she would ever fit in as she watched upperclassmen effortlessly maneuver through the agriculture departments.

Current incoming freshmen and returning students will have an opportunity Wednesday to join organizations that will make them feel like they are a part of the College of Agriculture, said Tuesday Ashner, the college’s student adviser.

The college’s first organizational club fair is from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday in all rooms of the Agriculture Building so students have the opportunity to explore the different departments.

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Among the 22 clubs participating will be representatives from Animal Science, Agribusiness Economics, General Agriculture, Food and Nutrition, Forestry and Plant and Soil Science.

This isn’t just a club night, said Camp, a senior in animal science from Collison and president of the Block and Bridle club. It is an opportunity to make sure the freshmen know that students don’t have to wait until their junior or senior year to get involved.

Ashner said the event is part of the College of Agriculture’s ongoing attempt to keep the school’s retention level high.

It is good for students to get involved, Ashner said. It keeps their interest up while they are waiting to get into their major field of study.

Camp said involvement in student organizations professionally benefits students.

Student activities enhance and develop organizational skills, Camp said. They also offer an opportunity to develop community pride.

Ashner said club organizations also offer opportunities for travel to national conventions in different parts of the county.

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Students traveled to Florida last year, Ashner said. They were then able to bring back what they learned and share that knowledge with their clubs and classes.

For Camp, the fair is a chance to help students orient themselves to the college atmosphere.

This is a chance for me, personally, to give back, Camp said. It is an opportunity for me to make a freshman feel welcome, a little less confused and on the outside looking in.

Factoid:The College of Agriculture’s Club Fair is from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday in the Agriculture Building.