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MONDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2012
CAMPUS
THE UNIVERSITY DAILY KANSAN
Homecoming welcomes freshman participation
TRAVIS YOUNG/KANSAN
Various organizations participated in KU's 99th homecoming celebration last year. KU Motorsports showed off its race cars on Javhawk Boulevard.
EMMA LEGAULT
elegault@kansan.com
By mid-October, the transition to college is more routine for freshmen. However, homecoming at KU is new territory for those new to campus and college life.
Unlike homecoming in high school, there are no dances, no royalty and more activities. The numerous events can be intimidating for new students. Homecoming publicity chair Lindsey Bloom said the events from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 22-26 on Wescoe Beach are good places to start for those wanting to be a part of the homecoming tradition.
"If [freshmen] don't have an organization to get involved with, the events on Wescoe Beach would probably be the best," Bloom said.
These events will feature giveaways, prizes and opportunities to learn more about KU's centennial homecoming.
On "Monday Funday," there will be a homecoming spirit photo booth for students to take snapshots of themselves and their friends.
The "Chalk 'n' Rock" contest on Tuesday and the Mural Contest on Wednesday are opportunities for groups to showcase their artistic talents by creating art relevant to the theme, "Century Long, Tradition Strong." Thursday's theme is "Rock Chalk Day" and Friday is "Crimson and Blue Day."
Bloom also suggested getting involved in "Stuff the Bus" on Sunday, the 3-on-3 basketball tournament on Monday and Tuesday and the pep rally and parade on Friday. She said attending homecoming events with people on their dorm floor is a good way for freshman to experience the festivities as a group.
One aspect of college homecoming that might differ from some high schools is the focus on athletics.
"There is a lot more emphasis on the football game," said Alex Burtin, a freshman from St. Louis.
The game is significant in giving families a bonding opportunity. Burtin said he is looking forward to his mom, dad and two sisters visiting and going to the game
with him.
Homecoming at KU is more than just a week of fun and football. Proceeds from some of the events such as the Jayhawk Jog 5K run/walk and mural contest, and a campus-wide book drive will benefit the United Way of Douglas County.
"The United Way benefits a lot of different organizations around Lawrence and all of Douglas County," Bloom said. "We actually have a cause that we're working for instead of just a fun week of showing school spirit."
To stay connected and learn more about different events during the week of Oct. 21-27, visit the Homecoming Steering Committee's Facebook (KU Homecoming) or follow them on Twitter (@KU Homecoming).
Edited by Brittney Haynes
A baton specialist along with KU Flag Corps members marched down Jayhawk Boulevard during the 2011 "From Lawrence with Love" homecoming parade.
NICK TRE, SMITH/KANSAN