As a Computer Science major, I particularly enjoy the Stockton Computer Society; it’s a student organization for those technically inclined people who really love computers. Every Thursday at 4:30 pm there’s a different module or activity focusing on how computers work and how we can do cool things with them. Typical computers aren’t the only focus in this club – they actually have a Lego Mindstorms set which contains programmable components to create robotic Lego constructions. At a recent meeting those present learned how to make panoramic image spheres using the same technology as in Google Earth’s street view. At an upcoming meeting there will be a computer building module – going through the process of putting a computer together piece by piece. The best feature about this club is that it’s open to anyone – no experience necessary. In this club, technologically inclined students can explore the complexities and amusements of computing alike – all while finding people with the same interests as them. Activities range from the simple to the advanced, and guided learning and practice is exercised so that no matter what one’s skill level is, anyone can still follow the guidelines. This club offers something cool to do and learn about each week within the domain of computers and modern technology. To get started in this club you’ll have to contact Professor Roubos in D wing since the venue changes each week. There’s no doubt that people can do fun and interesting things with computers, and in the Computer Society, we can show you how to do just that!

In the typical span of a college student’s day, there is little time left to the student to enjoy with friends the luxuries of a board game or a video game. The Stockton Gaming Club, which meets every Wednesday at 8 p.m., tends to be a much appreciated exception to the rule above. The crowd of people that flocks to the Campus Center’s second floor is astonishing – not only in numbers but also in spirit. Indeed many of the games offered at this gathering allow walk-ins and participants are always willing to help new players. Games offered range from Nintendo’s “Super Smash Brothers” to “Magic: The Gathering” to “D&D: Pathfinder,” and seemingly grow at each meeting. Although the meeting’s start time is well defined, there seems to be no official end time, as some games continue late into the night. Every week brings a new host of games and new opportunities to make lasting friendships with fellow gamers. Even if there doesn’t seem to be a desired game present, anyone can bring any game with him and play to his heart’s content. The Stockton Gaming Club every week brings great joy to students on campus – from jolly cooperation to fierce competition, there are no losers and everyone leaves with a smile on their faces. Nobody can understate the air of incredible friendship and fun that emanates from above Dunkin Donuts on Wednesday nights, and everyone is welcome to participate. The Gaming Club invites all people to come and get involved in a game they enjoy – so stay a while and game with us!

Among all the principles of Stockton University, service is highly emphasized on campus. Much to this point, the Day of Service took place recently, stressing once again the importance of service learning. Volunteers were not limited to students, and activities ranged from civic engagement exercises to helping move and organize donated books for “Books without Borders.” The Day of Service started with complimentary breakfast after dividing the volunteers into four groups, and progressed in rotations to four different service stations where the four groups experienced opportunities in service relating to Civic engagement, Greendot, Environment and Sustainability, and Books without Borders / Covenant House. This scheduling format is different than past Days of Service, offering a wider variety of service activities when compared to the previous format where volunteers could only choose one of the projects available. Lunch was served in the middle of the third station in the rotation, after which the rotation continued; eventually volunteers who had stayed the entire duration were given a free shirt after a reflection session. At the end of the day not only did volunteers gain a greater understanding of what service opportunities are available to them here at Stockton, but they also got their foot in the door metaphorically. This step is important not only for those freshmen who are in the Honors Program but also for those who wish to become more interconnected with the community at Stockton, as many sociable and friendly students encouraged students to join organizations like Circle K which promote “the qualities of leadership, the rewards of service and the unique spirit of friendship” (Stockton). Overall, the event was a great success and will no doubt return next semester, taking into account all the feedback volunteers gave.