WHAT’S GOING ON THIS SEMESTER
By Omshante Lee
Valencia Voice
Students often hear about the many Student Government Association sponsored events such as Unified Diversity Welcome Week and this week’s upcoming Constitution Day, but are left wondering what they are. Some look forward to finding out. “I’ve heard about Talent Tuesday, when one of my friends competed in the contest, but I’ve never actually been,” said Shelleda Philippe, a sophomore.
Flyers are posted and the buzz gets around campus, but detailed information about these events sponsored by students, for students is left out. For example, many contests like Talent Tuesday give students a chance to win a trophy or even cash prizes.
Events like Game Night are set up to work with varied student schedules, allowing them to enjoy the festivities in between classes or after classes. Occasionally they may even last throughout the afternoon or early evening, so that students can participate at the end of their academic day.
On Constitution Day, students can find out about America’s founding document. “The purpose of the day is to promote awareness of the Constitution. We will be handing out [copies of the Constitution] because
a lot of students don’t know anything about it, or even who wrote it,” said Amanda Dagiau, SGA’s vice president.
“I think its important for students to know about all the issues, especially with the upcoming election,” said Danielle Gaddy, a political science and government major.
Along with getting informed, students also have the opportunity to get involved. If they are not already registered, voter registration will be available during the event which will be held Sept. 17th on the patio of the Student Services Building. It will be an all-day event.
For a more casual atmosphere, SGA offers Game Night. It will take place on Sept. 30th from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. on the second floor of the cafeteria. Game Night offers students a chance to hang out with old friends and make new ones from all over Orlando. This event will not only be open to the West Campus, but also to students attending the Osceola, East, and Winter Park campuses.
One student offered fond memories of last semester’s Game Night. “It was so much fun. The atmosphere was nice, and everyone was just there to relax,” said Romesha Wiley. “I would definitely go again. People were dancing and just there to have a good time.”
Another event, held twice a month, is TalentTuesday. New contestants sign up every time to compete in the finale held at the end of the semester. Musicians, poets, dancers and rappers are all invited to perform. Contestants compete to win up to $250. Students can register by e-mailing the host, Allen Collins,
at [email protected], or by calling the SGA office at 407-582-1604.
“This semester, we wanted to offer Valencia students more diverse events. The purpose is to get everyone involved, and create a sense of unity. We started out with Unified Diversity Welcome Week, so we’re trying to keep the theme going of unity and diversity,” said Dagiau.