BY MELANIE TAMAYO & ANABELLA KING
As students returned to CCHS for the new school year, the campus was buzzing with excitement during the annual Rush Week, held from Aug. 27 to Aug. 30. For four days, the cafeteria breezeway was filled with booths, banners and eager students, all looking to find their place in one of the school’s many clubs or sports teams.
Rush Week at CCHS offers students a unique opportunity to explore extracurricular activities and get involved in the school community. The lively atmosphere included students signing up for activities and club representatives handing out candy and flyers to entice new members.
“It’s a great way to kick off the school year,” sophomore and SGA representative Drew Harvey said. “We set up music and gave out treats to get everyone excited. I love seeing all the different clubs showcasing what makes them special. It shows how diverse our school is.”
For many students, Rush Week is more than just a fun event, it provides a chance to explore interests, make new friends and get involved early.
“Joining clubs is the best way to find where you fit in,” Harvey said. “I joined SGA because I wanted to help create events like Rush Week that bring everyone together. It’s so rewarding to see students find their place in our school community.”
The latter half of the week focused on sports teams, which set up tables and displays filled with trophies, jerseys and practice schedules. Coaches and team captains encouraged students to sign up and become part of their teams. For the school’s soccer team, Rush Week was especially important.
“We’re always looking for new talent and fresh energy,” senior and captain of the girls’ soccer team Alexandra Totarsky said. “Soccer at CCHS is about more than just playing the game, it’s about building a family. When new players join, they become part of something bigger.”
Rush Week is also seen as an opportunity for students to build their resumes for college and scholarships. Extracurricular involvement is often key to meeting the requirements for honors societies, such as the NHS, which demands service hours and leadership roles.
“If it wasn’t for Rush Week, I don’t think I would have been able to be in so many clubs throughout high school,” senior Rachel Jacob said. “I joined multiple honor societies that greatly benefit my academic resume for college.”
As Rush Week drew to a close, it was clear that CCHS students were ready to dive into a year full of new adventures, friendships and achievements. Whether joining a club, a sports team or both, students left the week feeling more connected to their school and excited for what lies ahead.
“Rush Week sets the tone for the whole year,” sophomore Logan Arruda said. “It’s when you choose what you’re going to be part of and that makes all the difference.”
