Freshman Fall can feel a little overwhelming. Everything is new and different, and it takes some time to adjust. However, the best way to adapt is to immerse yourself in the community, and there are many opportunities for that – so many, in fact, that it can be hard to keep track, so here’s a compilation of some of the best ways to get involved in Branson right from the start.
Sports
This is a bit of an obvious one but absolutely still worth pointing out. Though tryouts for most sports happened over the summer, you can still join most teams if you want, especially as a freshman. And even if that does not work out, winter sports start in November.
Here’s a run-down of what sports are available this fall and winter:
Fall
Boys: Football
Girls: Golf, Tennis, Volleyball
Co-Ed: Cross Country
Winter
Boys: Basketball, Soccer
Girls: Basketball, Soccer
Check the Athletics Resources tile on Blackbaud for more information.
Clubs
Branson has over 40 clubs, and more pop up every year. They are a great way to meet new people, both in your grade and others. From foreign films to fly fishing, you can find one for every possible interest. And if you have a great idea for a new one, you can start it! Every year, tons of freshmen lead their own clubs. If you are interested in doing so, keep your eyes peeled for an email from Ms. Livermore, Dean of Student Life, with instructions.
In early September, the Clubs Fair will happen, where all of the clubs set up stands and take sign-ups. It’s an unspoken tradition to sign up for as many clubs as possible since they each give out treats to new members, so be sure to dive into that.
Arts
The arts are another great way to immerse yourself in the Branson community. Regardless of what art class you signed up for, there are some opportunities available to everyone.
First, the fall play. This year, the theatre program is putting on Pride and Prejudice. Auditions will be on September 2. For more information, reach out to Director of Theatre Maura Vaughn at [email protected].
Next, there are a multitude of ways to get involved in music. Some don’t take auditions until the end of the year, like Rock Band, but others do. For example, consider The Bellas, Branson’s girls acapella group, or Acafellas, the male equivalent. Those auditions are competitive, though, so be sure to come ready!
Affinity Groups
Though they are no longer mandatory, Branson’s affinity groups are a great way to get to know people from a similar background as you. There are over 15 for you to choose from, ensuring everyone is represented. Some are based on religion, like Religious Affinity and Jew Crew; others focus on race and ethnicity, like LatinX, M&M (Mixed and Multiracial), and White Allies. There are also groups centered on background, like Funky Family Fun, for students from non-nuclear families. Some, like Alphabet, the group for LGBTQ+ community members, are private and require you to reach out to the faculty advisor before attending for the location. Once affinity groups start up for the year, those advisors will send all-school emails with instructions on how to join. And, like clubs, if you cannot find your perfect fit, you are welcome to start a new one with a faculty advisor.
Branson is a small school, but there is no shortage of opportunities to get involved in. If none of these spaces pique your interest, no worries! Just keep checking your email and listening during assemblies, and eventually something will. By the start of your sophomore year, the issue will not be finding what to do with your time, but finding the time to do everything you want to do!
