Many clubs and organizations at Geneseo work to help people feel empowered, to express themselves and to be part of something unique. One of the organizations fulfilling these three values is Her Campus at Geneseo, an online magazine that gives women and women-identifying students the opportunity to have a voice.
Two board members from the organization, neuroscience major and secretary sophomore Lily Connerton and American studies and political science double major and senior editor senior Jessica Kaplan, answered questions about the club through an email interview. The two provide an overview of the organization and its sense of community.
“Her Campus at Geneseo is an online magazine that gives women and women-identifying people the opportunity to have a platform! Her Campus Media is the number one online magazine for college-aged women and Her Campus Geneseo is one chapter of over 400,” Kaplan said. “Writers have the opportunity to write about any topic or idea that [piques] their interest with the opportunity to be nationally published. It is also a close-knit community of writers that provides a safe space for all voices to be heard.”
Kaplan also explained why she encourages students to join this organization, and the benefits students will receive from writing more frequently.
“People should join this organization because it’s such a great way to express your thoughts on any topic you care about, have an interest in or just want to write about for fun. Her Campus is also a great way to get experience in writing, editing, social media and publication on a national online platform while also being surrounded by an incredible group of supportive writers and people,” Kaplan said. “It’s a safe space that gives the freedom to write about any topic you want and be a part of an amazing community of writers!”
This semester, Her Campus at Geneseo is operating online just like most clubs. Despite that, Connerton said that the club is finding new ways to have fun.
“Things have remained relatively unaltered since the pandemic hit, with the biggest difference being that weekly meetings are now held over Zoom rather than in person,” Connerton said. “However, our writers have been continuing to put out great content, and we have found creative ways to keep meetings interesting and fun.”
The two board members also explained that many students involved in this organization discover what it is that they are passionate about. No matter the article topic, the club is a judgment-free zone, thereby encouraging writers to express themselves as they choose.
“Even if you are not pursuing a career in writing or journalism, Her Campus is a great platform to use to express yourself and what you are passionate about. Writers can compose pieces on almost anything they find interesting, which are read on the Her Campus website by readers nationally,” Connerton said. “Besides this, I think anyone who joins Her Campus would find they are instantly connected with a group of caring and unique individuals!”
Anyone who is interested in joining the team is able to attend their weekly Monday meetings on Zoom at 5 p.m. To read articles, students are welcome to visit their website and can find more information or updates via their Instagram @hercampusgeneseo.