Students prepare for new semester with Winter Wonderland event
Lindsey Zike (middle), a sophomore art education major, looks up from her painting of “Frog and Toad” at the Winter Welcome Days Paint and Sip in the University Ballroom Tuesday night. Her friends all said they wanted to buy the painting because it looked so good.
January 11, 2023
With the semester just beginning, many students attended the Winter Wonderfest.
The event took place in the Martin Luther King Jr. University Union Ballroom from 7-9 p.m. Activities such as painting, bowling, giveaways were present with the addition of other prizes that were available for students to win.
Students took advantage of the photo booth that was available. Groups of friends took pictures while enjoying their time together to kick off the semester.
Ashley Richardson, a senior special education major, is also the President of the University Board and hosted the event. She said the purpose of the event was a way for students to kick off the new semester.
“It’s kind of relaxing and just gets you into a good mindset to start the new semester,” Richardson said.
Richardson expressed their understanding for students already being stressed with school even though the semester has just begun.
“Syllabus week doesn’t exist much anymore,” Richardson said. “So I know there’s people who probably already have [assignments] and stuff like that.”
Students were seen smiling while painting different art pieces. Instructors were guiding students via Zoom on how to create the Old Main castle with a winter time aesthetic.
Kobe Spencer, a senior English major, was also present at the event. Spencer had a positive experience at the event.
“There were a lot of people that came out, and so it helped with my social engagement,” Spencer said. “I feel like it was a good start or kickoff to the new semester.”
Taylor Brown, a sophomore criminology/criminal justice major, took the opportunity to enjoy themself in preparation for the spring semester.
“Tonight I really enjoyed the events,” Brown said. “It was nice to come and see everybody, and me and my friends spent a lot of time together. We actually had fun painting and it was great to reconnect after a long needed break.”
Brown is prepared for the spring semester. They understand it may become complex at times, but they are ready to“push through” the obstacles in order to be successful throughout the semester.
There will be another Winter Wonderland event on Wednesday from 7-10 p.m. in the University Union Ballroom.
Richardson said this event could be considered a “prelude” to the event that is taking place on Wednesday.
This event will have a carnival theme. Activities such as carnival games, arts and crafts, and free bowling will be available for students to enjoy if they attend. Prizes will be given away such as t-shirts. Refreshments will be provided.
Christina Holman can be reached at 581-2812 clholman@eiu.edu
