By Matthew Sotlar / The Jambar
For incoming FreshGuins at Youngstown State University, there are several activities to discover to prepare for a successful academic career.
IGNITE, which was held Aug. 22, is an annual event for first-year students that helps them get accustomed to campus, familiarize themselves with their colleges and meet interesting organizations. Freshmen also have the opportunity to socialize with fellow, like-minded students.
Organizations such as Student Government Association, Army ROTC program and Greek Life tabled the event. Students had the chance to discuss the organizations with representatives and receive complimentary YSU themed items. Other groups, such as Student Media, offered the chance to win t-shirts, stickers and reusable water bottles via a prize wheel.
Incoming freshmen also had the opportunity to play minigolf, complete an inflatable obstacle course and perform karaoke outside Cushwa Hall.
Brandon Calderwood, a freshman music recording major, said IGNITE is a great way for students to socialize.
“It’s a good way to have fun before you start college,” Calderwood said. “It’s a good opportunity to meet new people.”
While IGNITE was just one event to welcome freshmen, more events have been planned during Welcome Week for both incoming and returning students. First Year Student Services had information tents on Monday and Tuesday for those struggling to find a building or class.
Both days offered students the opportunity to make a Taylor Swift inspired or Pete the Penguin bracelet from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at William F. Maag Library.
Student Activities also hosted a 70’s Groove Fest, on Aug. 26. The same day SGA held a donuts and coffee event outside Kilcawley Center from 9 to 11 a.m.
On Tuesday, a student organization fair was held from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Daniel H. Becker Family Fountain Commons, outside of Debartolo Hall and Maag Library. At the event, students learned about the 15 professional student organizations at YSU.
There will be a Tech Talk for those who have questions or concerns about using Blackboard or YSU-issued devices in the Rossi Room in Kilcawley from 1 to 2 p.m. on Thursday.
Student Activities hosted a 90’s Rewind on Wednesday in the Chestnut Room in Kilcawley Center from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Greek Life hosted a Meet the Greeks event in the Chestnut Room from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
Puppy Palooza will be held on Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. outside the Andrews Student Recreation and Wellness Center. For those interested in building your own stuffed penguin, visit Student Experience’s Instagram to find out where you can build your own on Thursday.
Lastly, YSU Day will be Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the YSU Fountain. You’ll be able to learn about the history of YSU at the Maag Library, get snacks sponsored by YSU Eats and paint the rock outside of Kilcawley.
With Welcome Week underway, there are many other sponsored activities, both on and off campus. Information on these events can be found in your YSU student email from the Division of Student Affairs.