Amidst the confusing New Jersey weather, William Paterson University had no problems kicking off their fourth annual Pio Palooza at Zanfino Plaza this Tuesday during common hour.
Various activities, like tie-dye bags and make-your-own Pio, drew students into Pio Palooza. However, this event was more than just about the free pizza and activities, it was a way to get students involved with campus life.
Ashley Sears, an advisor at William Paterson, shares what this event means to her. “This event means to me is seeing the William Paterson community come together and really just de-stress with the end of the semester coming along and being able to connect with one another and learn about the different resources on campus.”
(Jenna Sheridan)
Students were invited during common hour to participate in activities such as building your own pio bear, tie-dying a drawstring backpack, getting a poster or sign made, and of course, the free food.
Junior Luke Haynes heard about this event through a friend, and stayed for the events. He stated, “I’ve already been thinking of dorming on campus, but seeing that we do have these events, and as a commuter, I actually really am looking forward to living on campus next semester.”
“I definitely like being on campus when things like this are going on,” sophomore Andrew Orr adds on.
Pio Palooza wasn’t just to celebrate the end of the semester and learn about different resources on campus. It also helped kick off Greek Week, a week dedicated to unify and establish the orgs’ presence on campus.
(Jenna Sheridan)
Anthony Baisden, a brother and head of recruitment for Groove Phi Groove Social Fellowship Inc., tells us how being a part of Greek life has changed his college experience.
“I got to do way more than what I’ve been doing my freshman year when I first got here. I got to meet new people and it’s just been a really cool experience,” and then offers his advice for anyone interested in Greek life. “Just do it, you know? Go in there, have fun, and see if this is meant for you,” he says.
“It’s very good for us to promote what we are and what we do as a greek organization,” Francesca Curreri, Greek Senate Rep for Delta Phi Epsilon, says. “I hope that we get more people that want to join our Greek orgs for next semester.”
