Campus Connections: How UC Davis Clubs Support International Students

When five visiting students from Hosei University in Japan arrived at UC Davis, they never expected that campus clubs—from cultural organizations to dance crews—would become the heart of their experience. 

“When I went to audition for the K-pop dance club at UC Davis, I was alone and the only Japanese student,” said Tsugumi Takahashi. “But I ended up making friends I never imagined I’d make. I am so glad I took this step forward to join a club.” 

As part of the Academic Engagement Track at UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education International Programs, Tsugumi came to the U.S. to improve her English, make connections and experience American university life. But she quickly discovered that UC Davis offers far more than academics—student clubs became her path to community, confidence and connection. 

Discovering Community Through Clubs 

A member of a dance team in Japan, Tsugumi joined EKHO—UC Davis’ K-pop dance team—not only to continue dancing during her free time, but also to experience U.S. dance culture. 

“The audition was competitive, but I’ve enjoyed making new friends and practicing my English skills,” said Tsugumi. She added that participating in clubs helped her grow more independent and confident. 

Making American friends and talking with native English speakers helps international students feel part of the broader UC Davis community. It gets them outside their normal routine of attending daily classes at the International Center and immerses them in campus student life. 

Like Tsugumi, Marina Katsuyama found that joining clubs transformed her daily life at UC Davis. 

“I wanted to make a lot of American friends and use English more,” said Marina, who joined several clubs this fall. “I also wanted to have fun and really experience American culture.” 

Marina joined a hiking club, NKOH (hula dancing) and the Aggie International Ministry. She also volunteered at fundraising events, bake sales and visited senior residents. 

For Marina, life at UC Davis is far more laid back than her busy schedule in Japan and being a part of the campus community has been a rewarding way to spend her free time. 

“I have more time for myself here—I’m exploring nature in the hiking club, learning different hula styles and choreography and gained a new perspective on Christianity,” Marina said. “It will be hard to find time for experiences like this when I go back to Japan.” 

New Experiences, New Perspectives 

For Hisashi Nakamura, joining a club opened a different kind of door—one that led to community service and hands-on experience beyond campus. Hisashi joined the Kelfi Sports Club (KSC), a community service organization that helps elementary school children play sports. 

“I wanted to try something new,” said Hisashi. “We’ve gone to a couple of schools in Sacramento. I didn’t expect to meet kids who don’t have opportunities to play sports. I’m glad to be part of this club and being involved in the community. It’s given me new perspectives and opened my mind.” 

Growing Confidence and Connection 

Rinka Oda’s participation in the Davis Christian Fellowship (DCF) gave her more than just new experiences—it gave her a connection to the campus community. 

“I decided to join DCF because the members were really kind and I liked the atmosphere,” she said. 

While the idea of Christianity was new for Rinka, the welcoming and inclusive club environment drew her in and provided a comfortable place to build her confidence. 

“My favorite part of the club is speaking with local students,” said Rinka. “This experience has made me more outgoing because it encouraged me to speak up, ask questions and express myself.” 

One of Rihito Fujii’s favorite parts of the Japanese American Student Society (JASS) is the casual activities that bring members together. Aside from hosting parties, JASS members often organize informal sports games—like soccer—which helped Rihito bond with new friends. 

“I’ve enjoyed attending all the parties—it’s one of the main ways to make friends at a club,” said Rihito. 

Explore 800+ Ways to Get Involved 

UC Davis has more than 800 student clubs and communities on campus. Whether you’re interested in culture, outdoor exploration, a future profession, artistic expression or community service, there’s a club for every passion. 

Cultural Clubs 

Find your home away from home or learn about a new culture. From the Afghan Student Association and Asian American Association to the Black Student Union and Arabic Language Club, UC Davis has a variety of cultural clubs to choose from. 

Academic and Professional Clubs 

Engineering groups, business clubs and a broad range of science groups are a great way to develop skills or explore a career of interest. 

Recreation and Activity Clubs 

What better way to spend your free time than exploring the outdoors, staying active and having fun with new friends? From sports clubs like basketball and bowling to birdwatching, chess and polo, there are countless ways to have a good time. 

Volunteer and Service Clubs 

Volunteering with a club or organization is an opportunity to develop leadership and communication skills, and it’s great for meaningful involvement. Find support groups, animal rescues and social causes to be a part of. 

Spotlights: Visiting Students from Hosei University 

Meet the five visiting students from Hosei University who shared their experiences: 

Rinka Oda 

Major: Intercultural studies 
Clubs: Davis Christian Fellowship 
Favorite experience: Activities with UC Davis student assistants 
“I enjoyed giving presentations. I improved my public speaking skills.” 

Rihito Fujii 

Major: International culture 
Clubs: Japanese American Student Society 
Favorite experience: Meeting new friends 
“I’m actually enjoying my writing class the most.” 

Hisashi Nakamura 

Major: International culture 
Clubs: Japanese American Student Society and Kelfi Sports Club 
Favorite experience: Playing soccer on the huge campus 
“My English has improved a lot since coming to UC Davis.”

Marina Katsuyama 

Major: International culture 
Clubs: Hiking, hula and the Aggie International Ministry 
Favorite experience: Making friends with people from different cultures 
“Managing daily classes and homework assignments helped me improve my time management skills.”

Tsugumi Takahashi 

Major: International culture 
Clubs: Japanese American Student Society and K-pop dance 
Favorite experience: Hanging out with friends and the green open campus 
“I wanted to study abroad on the West Coast and Davis felt like the safest choice.” 

 

Getting Started with Clubs at UC Davis 

Joining student clubs on campus is the perfect way to connect and build meaningful experiences outside of your study abroad program. Here are some tips to keep in mind: 

• Attend student fairs or research your options online. Many students learn about clubs through social media.
• Some clubs require auditions, but most are easy to join.
• You can choose your level of commitment in the club.
• Participating in clubs even with limited English is fine—and it’s a great way to practice your fluency with native speakers.
• Balance your club activities with your academics.
• Consider joining after you understand how much time your studies will take up. 

Clubs are one of the most impactful ways international students connect with UC Davis and immerse themselves in American campus life. Whether through dance, service or cultural exchange, these experiences help students build friendships, confidence and memories that last long after they return home.