Hawk Week activities a hit among students
- Aug. 19, 2012
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Friday kicked off the first night of Hawk Week festivities for students.
The night began with the SUA Rock Chalk Block Party at the Kansas Union where students could enjoy free food, bowling and check out the different clubs and organizations on campus. For new KU students, Hawk Week is their first chance to adjust to college life.
Sarah Glass, a KU journalism school graduate, performs under the name Miss Conception Friday night for students at the Hawk Week Block Party. Miss Conception is the leader of Vibe Tribe KC, a performance company from Kansas City.
“My first reaction when I walked into the Union was that there was a lot more people than I expected,” Elizabeth Chaney, a freshman from Brownsville, Tex., said. “I thought it was going to be lame, but it was actually really cool.”
Friday Night Live followed the block party and gave students an opportunity to watch performances by student organizations. Brittany Sawtelle, a freshman from Olathe, said attending all of the weekend’s events was tiring, but ultimately worth the effort.
“My roommate and I made a couple new friends, which was exciting,” Sawtelle said. “It was a little overwhelming, but also really fun.”
Saturday night was Traditions Night at Memorial Stadium. Students were taught the University’s traditions such as Waving the Wheat, the Rock Chalk Chant and the Alma Mater.
“I’ve been really excited about all the events,” Michael Tahmasian, a freshman from Lenexa, said. “I feel welcome already after Traditions Night. I feel part of a community, a family.”
Hawk Week is designed to allow students to meet other incoming freshman and have a memorable first experience at the University. The events are run by several organizations, including SUA and the Office of First Year Experience.
“It’s the first time students are introduced to the Union and SUA and what we do,” Jenna Olitsky, special events coordinator for SUA said.
Hawk Week continues until Sunday, Aug. 26. Weekend events include Super Service Saturday, an event that students can attend to volunteer in the community as well as on campus, and a religious organizations fair on Sunday.
—Edited by Andrew Ruszczyk
Hannah Barling is a sophomore from Arkansas majoring in journalism. Read more from Hannah Barling.
