On Wednesday, September 14th, I was able to attend the first Filipino Club meeting (which was very entertaining).  We had played games, ate food, learned a little bit about the Filipino culture, and danced!  I was also able to get a interview with the the president, vice president, and the language chair of the club.

President:  Franzielle (Franny) Ocampo

Vice President:  Aira Atuel

Language Chair:  Reyjee Artajo

Donyale:  “What made you want to join this particular club?”

Franzielle:  “I had joined freshman year and I wanted to learn more about the Filipino culture and their popular folk dance, Tinikling.  I also wanted to become more diverse.”

Donyale:  “What skills have you learned in this club?”

Franzielle:  “Definitely communication and teamwork.”

Donyale:  “Lastly, how will you encourage others to join?”

Franzielle:  “I would encourage more people to join by spreading awareness through the club members, use basic Tagalog, do dances, and share my cultural experiences.”

Donyale:  “What made you want to join this particular club?”

Aira:  “I wanted to join because I was born in the Philippines.  Once I heard about the club, I wanted to know more about the culture.

Donyale:  “What skills have you learned in this club?”

Aira:  “I know more about the culture, and I had learned the traditional folk dance, Tinikling.”

Donyale:  “What made you decide to join this particular club?”

Reyjee:  “I decided to join because I am Filipino myself, I wanted to spread awareness about the Filipino culture.  Also, the club members were very accepting and friendly.  We’re like a big happy family!”

Donyale:  “What strategies will you use to get more people to join the Tallwood Filipino Club?”

Reyjee:  “I would definitely spread awareness, use this interview, through the announcements, social media, and encourage the freshmans to tell others.”

I was also able to ask a sophomore and a freshman about why they wanted to join also.

Shirell Washington (Sophomore):  “I joined because I like learning about the Filipino culture and the food.  I also like to get more involved in the academy.”

Jayla Nicholson (Freshman):  “I think exploring new cultures is fun! I would also like to earn culture points.”

I would definitely recommend others to join the Tallwood Filipino Culture Club!  It’s always exciting to learn about a different culture, and how they are unique in their own ways.  Just like what Reyjee had said, “We’re like a big, happy family!”