The German Club is kicking off its year with an infectious blend of cultural enthusiasm, ambitious outreach and most importantly, some serious comfort food, setting the stage for a semester packed with activities.
The busy calendar started with a highly anticipated event, the Ice Cream Social.
Club Sponsor Elke Lorenz noted that hosting the kick-off during FlexTime, rather than after school, worked well.
“[it allowed for] great participation from established and new club members,” Lorenz said.
This sentiment was echoed by Club President Enoch Wang, who confirmed the good turnout. For members like senior Daniel Hageman, who has been in the club for four years, the social provides a welcome chance to “socialize with some of the members I don’t see too often,” highlighting the strong social bond that keeps members coming back.
The club’s focus now quickly shifts from frozen treats to savory ones, as the group gears up for its biggest fall fundraiser: the Oktoberfest Bratwurst and Potato Sale. Wang details that students can snag a delicious meal — a brat, some sourdough bread, and potatoes — all for just $5. This fundraiser is vital because the money raised helps sponsor members’ participation in key academic events, including the German National Exam and the annual state-wide competition, Schülerkongress. But let’s be honest, for many, the main draw is the food itself. Ben Pittman, who enjoys the chance to “eat more German food,” admits he is most excited for the Oktoberfest social.
“My favorite thing I‘ve done in the club is eat potato salad and bratwurst at the fall Oktoberfest celebration,” Pittman said.
He even learned a valuable skill: “making traditional German potato salad.”
Hageman similarly expressed his hopes.
“I’m hoping to eat some good homemade German food this year.” Hageman said.
While the promise of a meal (or in Hageman’s case, the initial lure of Jolly Ranchers as a freshman) might draw people in, it’s the culture and the core group of friends that keeps the commitment strong.
“I enjoy the people in the club the most, lots of good friends,” Hageman said.
He’s especially thrilled about the highly anticipated exchange trip to Germany, expressing excitement for the new group to “get to experience it” after his own amazing trip in the past.
Looking forward, the club leadership is focused on expanding its influence, with Wang noting that a major goal is reaching middle schools to encourage eighth graders to enroll in the high school German program. This outreach, Lorenz acknowledges, will be the club’s “biggest challenge this year” due to the significant time commitment required for weekly meetings, but the expansion remains a priority. Wang also hinted at exploring a possible collaboration with other campus culture clubs like Asian Student Union and Black Student Union to further connect with the school community.
For anyone considering joining this dynamic group, Lorenz’s advice is simple and direct: “Stay involved. The club needs you!” She emphasizes that learning another language is important for everyone.
“[It opens] hearts and minds towards other cultures and viewpoints,” Lorenz said.
