Big things are happening this week, click here to see the full event calendar.
By Brianna Rodriguez
As students move in and prepare for the first day of class, USF St. Petersburg’s community comes together to welcome the newcomers in a series of exciting and engaging weekend events.
Harborside Activities Board (HAB), Campus Recreation, Student Government and many other organizations put together numerous activities for the annual Week of Welcome, a week of events to give students a chance to get to know one another on campus.
“Meeting new people and getting more familiar with the school is what it is all about,” said biology freshmen, Katherine Lachcik.
The first event, a back-to-school bingo and residents life ice cream social, took place Friday. Sponsored by the Residence Hall Association and HAB, students had the chance to socialize, eat ice cream, play bingo and win free groceries.
On Saturday, students gathered on the Harbor Lawn to experience opening day and a free BBQ by the Beach. There were multiple inflatable activities, leader games and a DJ.
Compass peer coach, Sadandre Jackson, a junior psychology major, worked alongside other peer coaches to help engage students in event activities.
“I like the impact that these events have on students,” Jackson said. “I like the carnival because I really enjoyed the music and I like to do dance battles.”
Carter Brantley, a mass communications freshmen, is most excited about the Island Party on Monday night at the Coquina Pool.
“I am excited about the Island Party because there will be a lot of people there and it looks like the most fun,” said Brantley.
On Tuesday from 8 –10 p.m., students can participate in HAB’s annual Casino Night in the University Student Center. Blackjack, Texas Hold’em, music and many other party activities.
According to HAB president, Kevin Patrick, there will be a lot of new and larger prizes than last year.
“I am really excited to see all the new kids come in and to see how fun it is to work these events. It is really cool to show new students that they belong here —to feel that moment of clarity,” said Patrick, a marketing junior.
HAB is the main programming board on campus. Its goal is to promote student engagement through abundant cultural, social and educational activities that encourage on-campus student life. It is run by a committee comprised of multiple teams that work together to plan and promote events for students to attend.
“The HAB family is a family. So it is nice to have support when planning activities for students on campus,” Vanessa Rivera, senior mass communications major, and HAB Director of Stage Acts.
