August is an incredibly exciting time for Missouri State’s campus. From freshmen moving in, to seniors reminiscing, campus is bustling with life once more. There are so many things to do on campus the first week and a half (give or take) of everyone moving back. Whether it’s to welcome everyone to their new home, or the home they’ve loved for years!
1. Fan Fest and Bear Bash
According to Missouri State’s website, more than 5,000 students attend Bear Bash every year, making it one of the largest student events of the year. Students that attend the events can have the opportunity to enjoy free food, games, karaoke, bowling and many more fun activities right beside their residence halls.
2. Belong-B-Q
Behind Freudenberger (Freddy) residence hall, there’s an annual barbecue that takes place that allows students to learn about multicultural experiences, play fun games, and possibly win prizes.
3. New Student Convocation
New Student Convocation at JQH Arena allows new students to be officially welcomed to campus, and have a significant kick-off to their first academic year as Missouri State Bears. Students get to be gathered with their peers, meet the Pride Band and others, and listen to a featured speaker.
4. New Student Festival
Following New Student Convocation, the Festival kicks off. The Plaster Student Union (PSU) is bustling with student organizations, eager to welcome new students into their respective homes. Students can visit booths of over 150 organizations and departments throughout the PSU and the entirety of its outside surroundings where they can learn more about these organizations and programs.
5. Concert-On-The-Green
Every year, the Missouri State Pride Band performs their annual Concert-On-The-Green. This year, they will be unveiling their 2017 edition of themselves in the football stadium for all to hear. The music ranges from jazz to Latin to pop, so every Bear can enjoy a variety of music.
6. Solar Eclipse Viewing
The well-anticipated solar eclipse coincides with Missouri State’s first day of classes. Classes aren’t cancelled, unless the professor states otherwise for each student’s specific class. However, Springfield, Missouri will be having 96% coverage at its peak during the eclipse, and there will be a viewing party held in Plaster Stadium. Attendees receive glasses to help view the eclipse safely during this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
7. Sample Springfield
Sample Springfield is a tradition that has been going on for 33 years. During this event, local businesses come to campus and share information about themselves, offer samples, free gifts, and more. There will be over 60 tables that give away free information, gifts, coupons, and swag to students to help them become familiarized with the area.
8. Glow Climb
The Foster Recreation Center (FRC) is hosting Glow Climb, which allows students to dance and climb rock walls under black lights with glow-in-the-dark paint. Attendees receive a white shirt to paint themselves, along with glow-in-the-dark bracelets.
9. RecFest
The FRC welcomes back students with carnival food, games, and prizes to win. You can win free massages, gift cards to the Bookstore, and many more. Some of the games and activities that will be offered to students include a Black Ops obstacle course and a giant sticky wall!
10. Tour Meyer Library
From August 18th to September 8th, students can take a tour of Meyer Library. It is a great resource to have, as you very well may be spending much of your academic years inside those walls. It’s best to know where things are, what the rules are, and how to find the books and book types you’re looking for!
Students, enjoy these next few days learning about campus and meeting the newest Bears! We can’t wait to see you at our first meeting on August 29th at 5:30 p.m. in the Traywick Parliamentary Room, PSU 313
Emily Wilson, Communications Commissioner