Several hundred students were outside Sunday having a good time, despite the heat and the rain.

They were at Eastern’s Greek Community’s “Welcome Back Barbeque,” which was the first event of fall recruitment.

About 300 to 350 students attended the event, according to Kara Shively, vice president internal of Panhellic Council and junior communication studies major.

Students were invited to Carmen Hall to enjoy panther dining with members of the Greek community.

Many tried to enjoy the weather by playing bags, volleyball, foursquare, and listening to the DJ.

“It’s and opportunity for all members of Eastern’s campus to get to know each other and welcome the freshman and transfer students to Eastern,” said Erin Morettes, President of Panhellic Council.

More than a hundred students, including men and women, signed up for fall recruitment, said Katie Jo Bruner, a junior recruitment counselor for the Greek community.

Freshman Communication Studies major Jen Monkman said that it was a helpful way for her to learn about sororities and fraternities.

“Everyone is really nice and everyone wants to answer your questions,” she said.

D’anna Capela, the adviser for Interfraternity Council, was happy to see that everyone felt welcome at the barbeque.

“We want everyone to come out here to celebrate the end of the first week of school and the beginning of a great year,” Capela said.

Students who are interested can sign up for fall at the registration tables in Carmen, Coleman and the Union.

This annual event also has a philanthropic aspect. Every year the greek community uses the barbeque to help raise money for St. Jude’s Children’s hospital, Bob Dudolski, Director of Greek Life explained.

Members of Panhellenic and Interfraternity Councils collected monetary donations for St. Jude and offered tickets for a prize giveaway, Joey Zoubek, Vice President of Recruitment explained.