NC State is home to a wide variety of clubs. Each of these unique groups represents a variety of interests, with on-campus organizations focusing on topics from video games to STEM-related clubs. Geology Club is one of these many groups. Geology Club’s goals are to get students outside, and to educate the public through functions like elementary school science fairs.
Charlie Detelich, a fifth-year studying geology and president of the club, spoke about the group.
“[It’s] a way for other geology students to get together and find resources for career internships and opportunities for community outreach,” Detelich said.
Detelich also mentioned about some of her favorite memories from her four years as a member of the club.
“We used to hike a lot more, and we’re trying to bring that back,” Detelich said. “We’re working on planning a hiking trip [for] this semester.”
One of the trips Geology Club has consistently taken over the years is their annual trek out west. Each fall, the department offers a one-credit class that meets twice over the course of the semester and takes its participants to spend their fall break camping out in a national park. In the past, they have visited iconic sites such as the Grand Canyon, Death Valley and Meteor Crater National park. Next year, their plan is to head to Mount St. Helens, according to Detelich.
Detelich also spoke about how the club has good contacts for getting people connected to internships and potential jobs after college. Over her past two years as president, she has gained priceless leadership skills and networking opportunities.
The club offers a communal aspect, as mentioned by Laurie Howard, a fourth-year studying geology and the club’s secretary.
“It’s primarily a social club,” Howard said. “We use it to facilitate camaraderie between everyone in the Geology program.”
Through the club, according to Howard, she has met several new friends who share her interests. Getting to work behind the scenes putting activities together has been an added bonus.
“[It’s been a] really rewarding experience all around,” Howard said. “It makes me feel like I belong here at State.”
Another well-loved part about the club is the food opportunities it provides. Meetings are usually held at restaurants near campus, according to Detelich.
“We try to keep the meeting part to a minimum and save lots of time for socializing,” Detelich said.
The organization emphasizes that one need not be studying geology to join Geology Club.
“We’re welcoming to all majors, “Detelich said. “We usually just talk about our love for the outdoors. There are no fees. It’s just an opportunity to gain a better understanding of the earth and to make really good friends.”
Howard encourages anyone interested in geology to join Geology Club.
“If you’re down to learn more about the planet, meet a bunch of really cool people and eat Mexican food, Geology Club is for you,” Howard said.
More information on the club and their upcoming events can be found at their social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
