My Journey as President of the Red Bird Animation Club at Bellaire HS

As the president of the Red Bird Animation Club at Bellaire High School, I often get asked about the ins and outs of running an animation club. So today, I thought it would be great to share my experiences and shed some light on the ongoing tasks and responsibilities that come with this position.

Facilitating Weekly Meetings:

Every week, I am organizing and leading our club meetings. These sessions are not only about discussing animation techniques but also about bringing together like-minded individuals who share a passion for animation. This involves ensuring our meeting space is booked, the agenda is ready, and all members are informed about the day's topics. I ensure everyone feels welcome, their ideas are heard, and the atmosphere remains inclusive and engaging.

Collaborating with the Team

A significant portion of my time is spent collaborating with our club's vice president, secretary, and other key members. We're always brainstorming new ideas for projects, discussing potential guest speakers, and considering new animation techniques to introduce to the club.

To ensure all our members are constantly learning and growing, I am continuously researching and looking for opportunities to host classes and workshops. This includes creating course material, collaborating with professional tutors and coordinating workshop materials.

Overseeing Projects

Our members often collaborate on animation projects. Whether it's a short film, a series, or just a fun clip, I'm always there to provide guidance and ensure that deadlines are met. This involves regular check-ins, offering feedback, and celebrating the end product with the whole team.

Organizing Club Events:

From animation film screenings to school-wide events such as open-houses, year-end celebrations or competitions, I am always on the lookout for opportunities that allow our members to showcase their talents or learn from others. These events also serve as a platform to promote our club and attract new members.

Maintaining a good relationship with the school's administration is crucial. I'm regularly liaising with them to ensure we have access to resources, secure event permissions, and stay in alignment with school guidelines.

To keep everyone updated and engaged, I am consistently updating our club's social media pages and website. This includes posting about upcoming events, showcasing members' works, and sharing valuable animation resources.

Mentoring and Assisting Members:

New members are the lifeblood of our club. Perhaps the most rewarding part of my role is mentoring younger members. I am always available to provide feedback on their animations, offer advice on software/tools, and even give guidance on potential animation-related career paths.

Managing the Challenges:

As the president, I encountered multiple challenges. First and foremost was inclusivity. With a wide range of interests, from anime to classic Disney, ensuring every member felt represented and heard was paramount.

Another challenge was navigating the technological aspect. Animation software can be expensive, and while Bellaire HS provided some resources, they were limited. But as the old saying goes, necessity is the mother of invention. We organized fundraisers, reached out for sponsorships, and even delved into open-source tools to ensure everyone had an opportunity to bring their ideas to life. As with any organization, finances are a crucial aspect. I am continuously monitoring our club’s budget, ensuring funds are allocated correctly, and fundraising activities are organized when needed.

In conclusion, being the president of the Red Bird Animation Club is a rewarding and multifaceted role. The ongoing responsibilities and tasks I handle are diverse, but they are all driven by my passion for animation and my desire to see our club members thrive. If you are ever considering taking on a leadership role in a club or organization, know that while it can be demanding, the experiences you gain and the positive impact you make are genuinely invaluable.