Club Mania; Upperclassmen’s Advice on How to Get Involved

Kelsey Bumbaco and Lucy Hanlon

Are you new to LFHS this year? Searching for ways to branch out, or just wanting to be more involved in the school? As upperclassmen, we’ve been through our fair share of learning about different clubs. Here are some super fun clubs and teams that you might not have heard about.

Environmental Club

Calling all tree huggers! Lake Forest High School’s Environmental Club meets every Tuesday in room 242. They focus on all things environment, with an annual beach cleanup, an Earth Week celebration, plant sales, and more! This club would be an awesome choice for anyone who’s passionate about the Earth, or just wants to learn more about being eco-friendly. 

“One of my favorite memories last year was planting day.” said junior Allie Hektor, a member of the club’s executive board. “We planted seeds to sell at school and it was a great way of getting to know each other while also doing something productive for the club and environment.”

Scout Nation

Feeling peppy? Students in Scout Nation work to plan all different types of events at LFHS. They meet every Tuesday after school in the Wedge Cafe. Scout Nation is an amazing way to get involved and show your scout pride! 

“I think it’s so fun that we have a club that basically represents the student body. As student section leader, I really care about Scout Pride and showing our support to our teams and our clubs, and I absolutely love that LFHS is such a ra-ra spirit school.” senior Bianca Ibarra said.  

Bass Fishing

Did you know that LFHS has a bass fishing team? We did! Bass Fishing Club meets every other week in Mr. Busse’s room to talk about all things fish! During the spring, they go fishing once to twice a week. This club would be great for anyone who loves fishing and enjoying the outdoors! 

Junior and active member of the Bass Fishing Club Ben Longeway said.  “My favorite memory from Bass Fishing was definitely catching a 38-inch Muskee at practice.” 

Humans Rights Club

Human Rights Club is a student-led club that runs the in-school thrift shop, frequently raises money for non-profit organizations, and also participates in the Day of Compassion. This club organizes bake sales, beach cleanups, and more! Every 1-2 months they choose a nonprofit where they donate the funds from these activities.

“I love the club because it’s so rewarding. Every time I leave a meeting I feel like I am a part of something that is actively trying to better our world, even if in a small way,” junior Amani Yousuf said. “My favorite memory was the Day of Compassion last year, where I had the opportunity to give a speech about my experience of being a half Pakistani half Caucasian person in Lake Forest.” 

Art Club

Feeling artsy? Art club is a super fun space to get your creative juices flowing! They meet every Monday in Room 51, with a new activity each meeting! This club would be a great option for anybody who is looking for a chill space to be creative with friends.

“It’s definitely the highlight of my week,” said junior Sage Sherman. “We try completely different projects that you’d never really do by yourself. One time we used the red room and tin cans to make our own cameras which was super fun.”

Scout Buddies

Looking for a fun break from school? Scout Buddies is a super lively and welcoming club to join. This club, designed for typical students to interact with students with disabilities, meets every two weeks on Thursdays in the Wedge Cafe. Students participate in activities such as sidewalk chalk, karaoke, coloring, etc. This club would be an excellent choice for somebody who is looking for a place to hang out and make new friends! 

“Scout buddies has been such a fun way to hang out with my friends after school with and without special needs, and the whole club is such an amazing group of people! It is always the highlight of my day whenever I go!” said Board Member sophomore Ella Rubinstein.

Debate Team

Do you have a burning passion for current events? Do your parents tell you you’re too argumentative for your own good? Join Debate! Debate Team is a competitive team sponsored by the IHSA. The team works together and acts as a mock congress to research bills, current events, and politics. 

“I think people should join because it builds confidence, builds critical thinking skills, and provides a good outlet for students interested in current events.” Teacher sponsor Mr. John Wanniger said

These are just a handful of the clubs and activities that Lake Forest High School has to offer. There are countless extracurriculars that are looking for new members and would love to see you there! Happy clubbing!