Through Dancing Eyes
Written by Amber Manini
Ever wish you could take part in learning through the eyes of a dancer? Have you had the opportunity to be a part of a on campus club or organization? Have you witnessed different presentations and wondered where do these organizations exist? A simple acronym, RISO, may just be your answer.
The Registered Independent Student Organizations or RISO are groups or as we know them campus clubs that consist of at least six students who all share a common interest. RISO currently consists of 68 clubs and organizations. One of the clubs on campus is the Tupulaga O Samoa moa Taeao Samoan Club.
Since the clubs starting in 1982, the club has taken part in becoming an active member of both the University of Hawaii at Hilo campus community and the Hilo community alike. Having started off with only 10-15 club members, the club now averages 70 to 80 members per year. This year the club currently has 100 members. Holding events like car washes and participating in events such as the UH Hilo Spring Hoʻolaulea, Intramural Sports Volleyball tournaments, The Drizzle, Multicultural Night, International Night, and Relay For Life to name a few. The Samoan Club shares the beauty of the Samoan culture with one another as well as with other students, faculty and Hilo community members.
“ Being a part the of the Samoan Club here at UH Hilo is not about just meeting new people and dancing at events. For me its about my "Aiga" or family and making the members of the club feel that we are just that. It is because of this that has helped my performance in school a lot easier to manage. Knowing that there are people out there that support and want nothing but the best for you has been such a motivation for me as a Student and leader,” said Faailoilo Ma Sun a UH Hilo Senior majoring in Communications who is also the club’s current President. Ma Sun also commented saying that she would like to emphasize community service this year to the club allowing them to branch outward into giving back to the Hilo community.
The Samoan club is only one of sixty seven other on campus clubs and organizations students can become active members of. Not only are on campus clubs a networking group of students who share a common interest but it is a way of familiarizing yourself with a broader spectrum of topics. Allowing learning to present itself through other forms such as dance, storytelling, comradery, cultural activities, and other community and team activities.
For more information about joining or taking part in experiencing different campus club events and activities please visit the RISO website hilo.hawaii.edu/campuscenter/riso/list.php to contact your club of interest.
