History Club

For my topics in Writing Class Story 3

Books and articles were written describing the fall of many leagues and clubs due to the lack of interest or ambition by others. What was once a regular occurrence to go out and socialize has now been replaced with unwinding by one’s self.

This does not mean that there are no more groups or organizations encouraging people to gather and meet others. Many clubs and groups frequent the campus of UMass Lowell. One of those groups being the UMass Lowell History Club.

Founded by students in 2002, the intention of the History Club was for more then to just discuss and debate several issues and topics in History. The club also sought out to gather and create several social activities for students as well as faculty around the community.

“The goal of the History Club is to build a community among UML students that will help them to enjoy their stay at the University,” said History Professor, and History Club advisor Michael Pierson. “Hopefully, if students know and connect with other students they will stay in school, learn more history, and lead better, happier, and more informed lives.”

To aid in informing students the History Club organizes events and activities to encourage students to attend and socialize with other students attending. A recent activity in February, Lincoln Fest, provided students with a lecture from a guest professor on the myths and political opinions of former President Abraham Lincoln.

Along with the informational aspect it also provided entertainment in the form of a Lincoln look-a-like contest, and raffles and contests.

The club also provides members with trips anywhere from an UMass Lowell hockey game to conferences and visits to King Richard’s Faire.

The Tsongas Arena for a River Hawks game is just one of the few places that the History Club went to in 2008.

These forms of fun and entertainment are one method used to encourage students to inform others about the club.

“We rely on word of mouth with heavy doses of announcements by faculty members in classes,” said Pierson. “Also look for our bulletin board in Coburn Hall, and keep an eye out for our jazzy posters.”

Be sure to check out the Bulletin Board in Coburn hall for any new information regarding the History Club.

The only flaw behind the club, along with any club is the name. Many students believe that the History Club is intended for history majors.

“I assume that I would need to either have a major or minor in history in order to join the History Club,” said Senior Psychology major Joe Natale.

“I never really looked into the History Club, or any other club for that matter,” said Chemistry major Zach Thorpe. “I just figured that major was a requirement.”

The History Club does encourage all majors to attend meeting, and they attempt to get as many members as possible. For it is not just the subject of history, but the social gathering that is essential for any club or organization to flourish.

“We have many non-majors,” said Pierson. “History can be a hobby as well as a career, and we encourage anyone to join us.”