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Wide range of activities through LEGO
"Waseda Lego Block Study Group"

Keishi Kawahara, 2nd year master's student, Graduate School of Fundamental Science and Engineering

The Waseda University symbol made with Lego. I was the main designer.

The Waseda Lego Block Study Group is a new student club established in 2022. We are working to fully enjoy the well-known toy Lego and to spread its charm to many people. From people who want to try playing with Lego again as a child to people who are seriously creating with Lego, we have a diverse group of members from various universities, mainly Waseda students, who participate at their own pace.

Our activities can be broadly divided into two categories. The first is the creation of works using Lego. There are many different types of works, ranging from artistic works made by combining blocks to works that can actually be moved, such as ball rolling devices. All student club members work together to create large works, so there is a great sense of accomplishment when they are completed.

The second is exhibiting our Lego creations. In addition to exhibiting at WASEDASAI and other off-campus exhibitions, we are also invited to exhibit at commercial facilities. The thousands of people who have seen our work have given us kind words, and the appeal is that we have the opportunity to interact with a variety of people, including members of Lego clubs at other universities and individual Lego enthusiasts.

Left photo: A Tokyo Disney Resort diorama that took student club members a year to create. It is about 1m tall and 2m wide.
Right photo: A giant ball-rolling device. It uses motors and other devices sold by LEGO to move the balls.

Other than that, we also participate in a variety of recreational activities, such as visiting Lego events and stores and helping to run a Lego robotics competition called "First Lego League."

I have been involved with the Waseda Lego Block Study Group since its early days, and in the early days it was difficult to gather members and we had many hard days. However, by continuing our activities steadily, such as exhibiting our works at WASEDASAI, we gradually gained recognition, and now we are a thriving student club blessed with many members and supporters.

The exhibition at the 2024 WASEDASAI. Many people came to the event, creating a lively atmosphere.

Currently, we are creating an student club where even beginners can feel at ease, and we are planning events other than the creation of works, such as training camps and social gatherings, in order to further develop student club. Why not try playing with Lego again, something you may have touched once before, in a student club setting?

[Official student club Information]
◆ student club name: Waseda Lego Block Research Society
◆ Group classification: Clubs
◆ student club Founded: 2022
◆ Genre: hobby
◆ Activity date and time: Once a week (irregular days)
◆ Number of participants: About 40 people
◆ Location: Nishi-Waseda Campus (weekdays), Waseda University Student Center (holidays)
◆Instagram: @w.legoblock
◆ X:⁡ @w_Legob