Celebration of Mines: A Reaction Paper

Once again, the Celebration of Mines successfully kicked off Colorado School of Mines’ school year in both the academic and extracurricular senses. Friday, August 28, 1998 marked the day of the large four-hour festival, which proved to be both a well-planned and well-executed event. Hundreds of booths crowded Kafadar Commons, each with a program or activity to interest and occupy the minds and efforts of individuals associated with the school. In addition to the simple presentation of clubs and programs, the celebration also testified to the school’s unbelievable diversity and sheer amount of energy and activity.

A main attractant to the Colorado School of Mines is its small size. For many students, a small high school provides a small-town atmosphere and friendliness; traits that the students wish to see inherent in their college. Needless to say, Mines possesses all of the positive traits of a small town school, yet defies the negative traits: equally small amounts of sports programs, activities, and clubs. Mines, on the other hand, ensures that every student, regardless of background, origin, or even nationality, has the opportunity to partake in various programs which will both enrich the individual as well as entertain him. It is in this capacity that Mines proves itself as an excellent small school.

Of personal interest at the Celebration of Mines were several organizations that matched my interests perfectly. Namely, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Ultimate Frisbee Organization, and Competition Ski Team all held my interest as clubs which fed my needs and provided my relaxation. As a devout Christian, the FCA program provides not only spiritual nourishment, but also quality "Fellowship" between individuals. Next I came to the Ultimate Frisbee Organization. Imagine playing Frisbee for your entire life, yet usually playing alone due to the lack of interest of those around you. As a child growing up in Germany, I found that when I wanted to play Frisbee, my friends wanted to play soccer. Finally a club exists with members who share my rare interest. Finally, the Ski Team. Also attributed to my European background is my aptitude for skiing. Although my parents called it reckless, I believe that my alpine escapades have adequately prepared me to take the next step to downhill ski races. Where better to start than a club for students?

Essentially, I found countless clubs that existed to enrich the lives of students, and several that seemed to be tailored to my perfect fit. This amount of quality organizations testifies to both Colorado School of Mines’ aptitude for maintaining a top-notch small school and its interest in the quality of its students’ lives.