When it comes to college advice, “Join clubs!” ranks right up there with “Go to office hours!” and “Study in groups!” Finding the right fit can be challenging, with hundreds of clubs to choose from and assignments piling up. In this post, we’re spotlighting two cultural clubs offering a unique campus experience. To give you the inside scoop, each club's presidents will write blurbs about what makes their groups unique. Our vision is to connect students with campus clubs, helping you find communities that fit your interests and goals.
First up: German Club at UMN and Le Cercle Francophone!
German Club at UMN
German Club holds monthly events on campus that aim to bring German language learners and anyone interested in German culture together. The first question people always ask is, “Do I have to know German?” The answer is “No!” The most important things to us are accessibility and community. German language proficiency may be what sparks the initial interest of some members, but as a cultural club, we emphasize teaching history, consuming German media, and even celebrating German holidays.
Event Highlight: Oktoberfest
Personal Testimony: “Joining German Club has been one of the best ways to connect with other students who share an interest in German culture, whether or not they know the language. I’ve met friends from all over campus with whom I wouldn’t have crossed paths otherwise. The events are fun, low-stakes, and offer a space to step outside your usual routine and join a community of people interested in the world beyond their bubble. What started as a small curiosity in German culture transformed into an abundance of meaningful connections.” - Tammy Ngo, German Club President
Le Cercle Francophone
When people think of the French language, they typically think of France (and maybe even Quebec) as the only places that speak this fantastic language. What they don’t realize, however, is that the Francophone world consists of more than 25 countries, such as Martinique, Senegal, and Haiti. This is precisely what Le Cercle Francophone wants to teach all UMN students - the large Francophone world and all of the countries that it encompasses. The best part? No French knowledge is required… culture is what we like to focus on here!
Event Highlight: Courtney Lochner Book Talk
Personal Testimony: “Being a part of this organization has allowed me to connect with not only a wide array of UMN students but also with faculty and community organizations that have taught me more than I could have ever imagined. I truly believe that joining any cultural organization, whether connected to your background or not, is crucial to becoming a more well-rounded and globally-minded person.” - Tom Bibbee, Le Cercle President
Club Mission Statements
German Club: Our cultural club focuses on bringing together German language learners and people interested in German culture. Language proficiency is not required as our events are hosted in English. Still, we offer speaking opportunities for those looking to practice German. We host events once a month. For more information about our events, join our Discord at z.umn.edu/gerclubdiscord and follow us on Instagram at @GermanClubatUMN.
Le Cercle Francophone: We strive to connect students and community members by celebrating the diversity of French-speaking traditions and fostering meaningful interactions. We aim to build a strong network that bridges the Francophone world with our broader community by promoting language learning, cultural appreciation, and collaboration. Follow us at @lecercleumn on Instagram to keep up with our events and more!
German Club and Le Cercle Francophone are just two of the many amazing cultural clubs at the University of Minnesota. If you're interested in connecting with more clubs like these, join us at Worlds Within Reach on December 9th, 2024, at to meet other cultural organizations that are excited to welcome you!
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