A lot of kids can be scared to openly express their likes or hobbies, especially if what they enjoy is unfamiliar or unknown. For fans of the Japanese animation style called anime, it might be hard to find like minded students on campus. That’s why sophomore Rachel Patterson started the school’s anime club.

“I knew a lot of people and friends who didn’t feel like they were fitting in,” Patterson said. “Knowing this, I wanted to try and create a welcoming environment where no one cared what you liked or how you acted. That’s why I started the club and so far I’ve absolutely enjoyed it.”

Members of the club appreciate the existence of the club itself.

“The club is wonderful place to express your inner dweeb,” sophomore Carolyn Jurotich said. “I love getting to hang out with my friends after school talking about and watching things we all like without judgement.”

But before the club could really take off, it needed a teacher to help run the organization.

“I really enjoy anime and I know a lot of people are scared sometimes to admit they like anime,” teacher Lindsay Weaver said. “So I thought if they had a teacher figure saying they watched it they’d feel more comfortable. I love seeing the kids come out of their shells and overcome the stereotype against anime watchers, especially when someone walks in who you wouldn’t expect to enjoy it.”

In the club, the students have a lot of freedom in what they can do.

“I don’t really lead them, they lead themselves,” Weaver said. “Sometimes they’ll ask me to watch an episode, movie, or YouTube video. Other times they don’t want to watch things, they just decide to talk about characters or the new popular show.”

The club meets after school on Wednesdays. For more information on meeting times and dates check out the clubs Instagram, @lhs_anime.