While some freshmen will be popping open beer cans this weekend, others who aren't into the party scene or breaking the law can participate in alcohol-free events in Baker University Center.
Students who attend the free programs can hear the musical melodies of bands, put on their poker faces for Poker Night and take in a movie during Midnight Movies, all of which take place on Friday and Saturday nights when many students go out to party.
Chad Barnhardt, assistant director of Baker Center, calls these events social programs rather than alternative programs because the idea isn't that students either attend these programs or they go out to drink.
We made some changes and I feel confident that first-year students will be interested in the programs we offer
Barnhardt said.
Baker Center staff worked with different classes, such as a marketing class, to hear input and suggestions to entice more students, he said. The center's staff continues to hear that students are interested in events consisting of music, food, comedy, dancing and movies.
We are trying to accommodate these requests Barnhardt said.
In addition to reaching out to classes, the office is interested in and welcomes student feedback. Feedback and attendance are indicators of a successful event that meets the suggestions of students, Barnhardt said.
Freshman Maggie Bogdan, an exercise physiology major, said that while the events would interest her and some of her classmates, she still thinks freshmen would choose to party. Adrienne Reinhart, a freshman biological science major, agreed with Bogdan.
I don't think it will make a big difference Reinhart said.
Whether or not these social programs make a difference, Barnhardt said the office encourages student feedback because it is interested in what they want.
I think that is really important
he said.
Barnhardt said that he hopes the events attract not only freshmen and upperclassmen but faculty and staff as well, adding that the center offers students a chance to get involved in working with student organizations.
If we can improve the quality of campus life
that is what we are interested in doing
Barnhardt said. I don't think being Uptown is the only thing to do in Athens.
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Emilie Schneider
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