THE UNIVERSITY DAILY KANSAN
MONDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2009
HOMECOMING
11C
No reason not to enjoy week's traditions
Homecoming offers freshmen a chance to settle in Take a senior's advice: don't miss out on festivities
Well, it's homecoming, or at least that's what I hear. See.
what I hear. See, I'm still new to town and don't really know all there is to know about KU's homecoming. Truth be told, I don't think many freshmen know what's happening on campus. The week ahead, however, doesn't look to disappoint.
It's full of events, like a barbecue in front of Wescoe Hall, a mural painting contest and a comedy show featuring Kristen Shall and the Blanks, not to mention the football game, which ought to be a satisfying blowout of
the Iowa State Cyclones. There's also the parade, which begins on Jayhawk Boulevard two hours before the game on Saturday.
level here
"This is the first chance most of us will have to see and to enjoy the traditions and history of the University."
Talk about options. The only way my high school celebrated homecoming included a week of themed dress-up, topped with a parade around my high school's block, a boring football game and a cheaply-decorated dance. Clearly, things are on a different
And we underclassmen, more than anyone else, get a chance to reap the benefits.
This is the first chance most of us will have to see and to enjoy the traditions and history
of the University. Homecoming has been held for nearly 100 years here, and freshmen can be a part of it. If we're willing to go out and get involved, we can make memories that will give us a reason to come back one day when we're
long out of school.
Just look at the alumni section Saturday at Memorial Stadium. They know how great this place is.
They know there's a reason to come back 10,20,or even 50 years after they have graduated. For some it's the football team.
For others it's the atmosphere on campus or maybe to relive the glory days.
As freshmen, we get to see those reasons first-hand. The truth is that most of us don't realize we actually live here yet — that we're not on vacation or at a year-long summer camp, eventually to return home next summer to mommy and daddy.
It's time to realize that a university can be much more than four years spent getting a degree. Homecoming, the Rock Chalk chant and Big and Baby Jay give us reason to get comfortable here — to finally turn from the inexperienced freshmen into members of the KU family.
Remember that as you're hopping from event to event this week. It's not just about the swag, parade floats and a bone-crushing football beatdown. Instead, freshmen, consider it this way: for the first time since arriving here, homecoming gives us a chance to learn the true meaning of being a Jayhawk.
Edited by Lauren Cunningham
Zack McQuiston is a Shawnee freshman in journalism and Spanish.
E every fall just when the leaves begin to change, the lahawk community
the jayawk community comes together to celebrate everything that is the University of Kansas. Every year there are a few solid traditions I can count on and a couple changes to keep the festivities fresh. No matter what, it has always proven to be an exciting week and a reminder of the bond we all share as Jayhaws.
As a senior I can reflect on the memories I have from homecomings past.
Friends and family come into town to join in the activities, or just using the event as an excuse to party, always adds to the school spirit. Though there's nothing quite like being surrounded by fellow Hawk fans, there's also a great feeling that comes from converting a few more to our side. I can proudly boast that I've created numerous Jayhawk devotees over the years — even one from Missouri. She gets a lot of flack, but always wears her "Rock Chalk Jayhawk" T-shirt with pride. Sharing the traditions and letting outsiders be part of homecoming helps them understand why the University is special.
The past three years haven't fallen short of my expectations and this year should be no different. Homecoming 2009 unofficially
kicked off Oct. 1 with a concert by one of my personal favorites, Girl Talk. After setting the mood, the next week is filled with many fun activities that students are sure to find something to fit their preferences.
For the sports enthusiasts there's a three-on-three basketball tournament. Those with a more creative side can share their talents in the jayhawk Jingle contest. If you're down for a good laugh, the Lied Center is hosting a comedian show. You can even shake your booty with that certain guy or gal at the Association of University Residence Halls homecoming dance at Hashinger Hall. If none of this sounds appealing, there's always the cookout and the pancake feed. Who doesn't like pancakes?
Though there are many options for students to choose from, Homecoming Week is always a steady buildup to the excitement of game day.
This year, the Hawks will take on the Iowa State Cyclones. Jayahawk fans can get pumped up for the game during the homecoming parade Saturday morning and by tailgating at the Adams Alumni Center. By the time it's kickoff, you'll be more than ready to wave the wheat.
Homecoming is a great opportunity for students to come out and show their school pride. The University works hard to put together an array of entertainment for the week and everyone should take advantage of the unique activities available.
My past three years at the University have been filled with some of the best times of my life. One of the primary reasons I chose to attend the University is the ever-present and infectious school spirit. Homecoming is just one of many chances to embrace University traditions and enjoy times with fellow fans. This homecoming, get out there and enjoy all the awesome events. A full list of the schedule can be found on the University's calendar Web site.
— Edited by Arthur Hur
Richelle Buser is a Columbia, III., senior in journalism.
KU DINING SERVICES:
Over 20 Locations Campus-wide.
Quick And Friendly Service.
Dining Options For Any Schedule.
New Online Resources, Including NetNutrition $ ^{\circ} $ , on kudining.com.
Professional Catering For Memorable Events.
Newly Renovated Facilities.
Delicious Food.
ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES.
2008 KU Center for Sustainability "Campus Leadership" award winner. Learn how to put more green in your diet at kudining.com!