Photo by Mike Frederiksen
The U-Building was flourishing with the chatter and laughter of both new and returning Moraine Valley students on the Student Life sponsored “Welcome Days.”
Information tables were set up with free t-shirts, treats and drinks as students were drawn in by fun activities like Dance Heads and Picture This. Student Life Coordinator Demetrius Robinson said, “We want students to be aware and take advantage of all the things Moraine has to offer, like its clubs, student health insurance, intramural sports, leadership opportunities, job resources, and also this building, because we want everyone to know “U belong.’”
Students gathered around to watch “Danceheads” in action, as their friend’s were transformed into professional dancers on screen. A green sheet was draped around them as they stepped in front of a green background, making their head the only thing visible as their body was digitally replaced on screen. One participant, Sammy Sheikh, said, “It was really fun, but it was a little awkward to have the whole room looking at you.” Upon receiving his DVD copy of the dance, he said, “This is getting uploaded to Facebook!”
This green screen activity brought lots of silly fun as students bobbed their heads and sang along to songs like “Baby Got Back,” “Lady Marmalade,” and “Pokerface.” Taylor Brooks said, “We were fiercin’ it out to ‘Single Ladies’! This is a great way to bring publicity to student life and all its organizations.”
Thursday brought even more enjoyment. Students captured memories of their friends and Spring 2012 semester on Key chains and magnets. Other students participated in the beanbag toss or the latter ball games for chips or a free $5 lunch voucher. A hula-hoop competition also took place with undefeated Erica Sinnott. Multiple contestants gave it a shot, but student Breelyn Zavala was the one to finally claim victory over Sinnott after walking in circles, closing her eyes, holding up her hands, and then getting on her knees while still hula-hooping. Zavala said, “That was fun, but very tiring!” It was a free lunch well earned.
“The turnout was great! The cold weather encourages the students to gather inside, and they were very willing to participate. Everyone was filling out the information sheets so that clubs can contact them later. I was surprised to see that January has brought a lot of new freshmen, but it is wonderful to see that,” said Robinson.
