The Mahjong Club

November 18, 2022

Academics

GNS

Mahjong is a tile-based game that was developed in the 19th century in China and has since spread in popularity all around the world. Jeffrey Chan ’23, the founder of the Mahjong Club, and Kate Roed ’26, a participant, have taken time out of their busy schedules to answer a couple of questions about the new club.

What is Mahjong and how do you play it?

Jeffrey: Mahjong is a traditional Chinese game that is very complicated. It is strategic and requires a lot of luck. You have to plan out what you’re going to do and how you’re going to do it.

What is the purpose of the Mahjong club and what inspired its start?

Jeffrey: I wanted to introduce and show people some Chinese culture. My interest, skill and experience in Mahjong were what made me start this club.

What do you want people to take away from this club?

Jeffrey: I definitely want them to learn how to play Mahjong but also learn about patience. Mahjong takes a lot of patience and you have to calculate a lot in your head and not rush your moves.

When does the club take place?

Jeffrey: It is every Tuesday at lunch in Simpson 204 and Thursday at lunch in Atkins 101.

Why did you join the Mahjong club?

Kate: I think Mahjong is interesting and I wanted to learn how to play. Everyone in the club is very nice and friendly, with Jeffrey teaching me how to play Mahjong.

Do you have any experience with playing Mahjong? If so, what?

Kate: Yes, I have, because Jeffrey, the founder of the club, really wanted us to learn Mahjong, and often invites me and my friends to participate in the game and study, so I have experience in playing mahjong.

Any words of advice for beginners?

Kate: Don’t be shy because you can’t, the purpose of the mahjong club is to teach others.

Feel free to drop by the club, eat lunch and learn how to play Mahjong with Jeffrey, Kate and other GNS students!