---
Party schools show zeal for homecoming events
By Jennifer Poisinelli
Special to the Kansan
The University of Kansas may be the No. 8 party school, but when it comes to celebrating homecoming festivities, the Jayhawks do not hold a candle to the seven schools above the University on the Princeton Review's survey of top party schools.
Most schools hold the traditional homecoming parades, ceremonies and football game.
The review's party schools stand out by going above and beyond the homecoming call of duty. With everything from appearances by Bill Cosby to cameos by President Clinton, the southern states seem to have the most elaborate homecoming festivities.
The University of Florida, rated No.3 on the Princeton Review survey, holds the largest student-run pep rally, said Matt Crist, Floridajunior.
"Students from the nation's other schools come to watch our homecoming so they can get suggestions on what to do for theirs," Crist said.
The pep rally, known as the Gator Growl crowds 75,000 people into the stadium. Comedians, such as Ray Romano from the television series Everyone Loves Raymond, perform after the pep rally.
Florida's homecoming has featured appearances by President Clinton, George Bush, Greg Kinnear and Conan O'Brien. Comedian acts have ranged from George
Burns to Billy Crystal to Jerry Seinfeld.
The University of Georgia, rated No.4 on the party-school survey, will have comedian Bill Cosby perform the night before homecoming.
Georgia's "Meet the Players Night" invites all students to speak with athletes and get their autographs. Georgia's parade has alumni NFL players, other sports stars and country music singers ride on the floats.
Florida State, ranked No. 6 on the party school list, will feature comedian Jay Mohr from the movie Jerry McGuire.
Amy Crews, Florida State junior, said classes were put on hold during homecoming festivities.
"Homecoming is very hectic," she said. "During the week everyone is partying and missing classes."
The University of Wisconsin at Madison, ranked as the No.2 party school, holds the most homecoming contests, games and sporting events. Events include a golf outing, yell-like hell, swap day and a spirit parade.
The University of Colorado at Boulder, ranked No.5, and the University of Kansas will have less elaborate homecoming festivities than their party peers.
Jason Ziemianski, Mission Hills senior, said he was not even aware of the University's homecoming events this year.
"I haven't heard much of anything about homecoming, and I've been going to school here for three years," he said.
The Image Works, Inc.
23rd & Louisiana
In the Malls Shopping Center
865-0777
Store Hours: 9-6 Mon.-Sat. 9-8 Thursday
25% Off Color Film Processing
Glossy Only C41-APS 35mm,110
Friday, October 23, 1998
The Hill
Homecoming 7