Students flocked to the East Gym parking lot on Saturday to celebrate the new school year at Binghamton University’s 19th annual University Fest.
The event, which was co-sponsored by the Binghamton University President’s Office, Sodexo Campus Services and WHRW, provided an opportunity for students to explore the clubs and organizations available at BU.
In addition to the more than 100 club and organization tables, University Fest featured live music, vendor tents, poster sales and a free book giveaway.
Nicole Carbonaro, a senior majoring in psychology, helped at the University’s dance team table during the event.
“We’re hoping to get the word out to everyone and let them know that we’re here,” Carbonaro said. “Prospective members get to talk to us to see what we’re all about and hopefully, more people will audition for the team.”
The team wore matching shirts and handed out flyers to interested students with information about tryouts for the spirit squads. After seeing about 50-75 interested students, Carbonaro considered the event a success.
“We met a lot of interested students,” Carbonaro said. “I’m very excited about the auditions now because it looks like there is going to be a great turnout.”
Freshman Giovanna Varuzza said she took advantage of the student tables and the chance to see all the student groups.
“I’m looking into singing groups and community service,” Varuzza said.
She added that she enjoyed the free giveaways as well.
“It’s awesome, free stuff is the best,” she said.
Campus construction projects forced this year’s University Fest from its usual place on the Peace Quad to the East Gym parking lot.
Although the parking lot blacktop exacerbated the scorching heat, Dan Camporese, a first-year grad student studying electrical engineering, said he still enjoyed his third University Fest
“I’ve always had a fun time at University Fest,” Camporese said. “I think the food and the free stuff we can get is awesome.”
At one of the tables, Camporese played a game of water pong to try and win a t-shirt from the organization CommuniKey. Those who did not make the shots successfully were given a free wristband from the group.
“The games that we can play for prizes and meeting new people is great too,” Camporese said.