You don't have to be an 'expert' at anything in order to give something a try at JCH. In a friendly atmosphere like ours, you are free to explore some new interests, and build on some old ones. Those who give something to the place, whatever their talents, get a lot more back. Much of this comes under the banner of the Student Club Executive, in which fellow students elect representatives (with plenty of opportunity to serve on a wide range of Student Club committees).
Here are just a few perspectives on what's on offer.
College Dinners
Janet Clarke Hall is an intellectually stimulating environment where students are afforded the opportunity to listen to and engage in discussion with local, national and internationally renowned members of the academic, political, artistic and business communities. In 2008, Australia's leading philosopher Professor Peter Singer addressed the college on his book 'The Ethics of What We Eat' at our author's dinner, and this was followed by the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Glyn Davis who told us about his experiences chairing the Prime Minister's 20/20 Summit. Both of these speakers, leaders in their specific fields, stimulated critical discussion, provided guidance and captured the imagination of many of the students. Undoubtedly, the presence of well-acclaimed individuals at formal college events, serves as a reminder to students of what they are capable of achieving through utilising their skills, ambition and a great deal of hard work. Furthermore, these events also represent an occasion for students to come together away from their busy schedules, and remember that they are exceptionally privileged to be a part of this close-knit community of unique, talented and amazing students. At JCH it's ok to have lots of fun - and ok to think about and talk about the ideas which are going to impact on the world in which we live.
Kirsty Corby, 2nd year Arts/Law
Music
Janet Clarke Hall is an incredibly musical college, with opportunities for all levels of ability. Aside from our fantastic Artist-in-Residence, Dr Anna Goldsworthy, who mentors and teaches students, we also have plenty of other ways to have fun with music whatever your level of interest and expertise (join the fun in an informal choir; have a go in a College soiree or our annual revue; perform at our formal dinners). Additionally, students at JCH can audition to sing in the Trinity, Ormond and Newman College Choirs, or just gather around the piano in the Junior Common Room for an informal sing along. Practice facilities include two soundproofed rooms with upright pianos, another upright piano in the Junior Common Room, and the grand piano in the Dining Hall.
Suzanne Zhou, 2nd year Music/Law
Drama
Drama is an exciting aspect of student life at Janet Clarke Hall. Each year the student club put on a play bringing together students in any number of roles; from directing and producing to costuming and make-up, and of course as performers.
Personally I have been involved in two plays during my time at JCH, as both a performer and a producer and my experience has been very memorable. I've found that drama at Janet Clarke Hall is about students working together to have fun and produce good theatre. I think there is the promise of more exciting productions in the future of drama at JCH.
Eammon George, 2nd year Arts
Sport
Sporting events at JCH are the best activities to get involved in, because they allow you to do just that, get involved! There is a chance for everyone in college to play a sport, in a fun and spirited environment. We're not concerned about winning but just having a great time together. You can learn how to row, play Softball, Australian Rules football and more. Spectators at JCH despite our size are some of the loudest and animated. This year we have competed in the finals of Women's Softball, many events at the Athletics Carnival and finished third in the finals for volleyball. A major achievement this year was the rowing carnival, JCH had six girls out of a team of eight who had never rowed before and a coxswain who had never steered a boat. Despite this we finished second in our heat and made it into a semi final.
Georgia Mill, 2nd year Arts
Community service
As a privileged community, JCH students and staff take pride in giving something back to those who may be less fortunate through our Social Services Committee. You might want to join in the Carlton North Primary School Homework Support Group, which teaches English to refugee children, raise money for cancer research (the Principal has been known to shave his head if we raise enough money), sleep out for the homeless, or sponsor a child in the third world. No one is pushy about getting involved, but you will find like-minded people here if you want to.
Jeevika Makani, 2nd year Arts
Social life
JCH is busy with student-run parties and social events through the year. In such a friendly place, it is great to relax, at the end of a week, at a party with your friends. Many of our parties have a fun theme, with a chance to dress up and let your hair down. The College Ball is a chance to dress up for a three-course meal and a dance party; beyond official functions, there are all the good things about being close to pubs and restaurants, jazz bars, art galleries and theatres. Freed up from the need to commute long distances, we can make the most of all that Melbourne has to offer.
James Peters, 1st year Commerce
Historical society
The Janet Clarke Hall Historical Society is a student-led group that provides a forum for the discussion of a range of historical topics and fosters a 'love of learning for its own sake'. Students can participate on our committee, which is responsible for selecting topics and organising the events, or simply attend events held throughout year. Past events have included attending the MTC's production of 'The History Boys', discussing the Cambodian Genocide, viewing and discussing the movie 'Elizabeth', and a discussion on the US Presidential Elections with the US Consul General.
Julia Lai-Kwon, 3rd year Medicine
Chapel life
Janet Clarke Hall is a community reflecting Anglican values, embracing people of varied faiths and beliefs. We welcome students of all faith traditions, and celebrate diversity among our student body. Students are welcome to join in services of worship, sharing in the life of the magnificent College Chapel, which is shared by Trinity and Janet Clarke Hall.
Chapel choir
Over many years students and staff at Janet Clarke Hall have also played a role in the musical life of the Chapel, principally through participation in the world class Choir of Trinity College, which comprises twenty-four choral scholars - auditioned annually - and is recognised as one of the finest collegiate chapel choirs in the world, having completed highly successful international tours in recent years. The College offers Choral Scholarships for resident students of Janet Clarke Hall who are selected for the Trinity College Choir.
Applicants who wish to learn more about the choir may also wish to consult the Trinity website at: http://www.trinity.unimelb.edu.au/choir/