Community Life has completely reshaped its approach to events this semester to abide by social distancing guidelines and to consider students currently residing at home rather than on campus. Few events have occurred thus far this semester, but more have been scheduled with Riverside County moving into the red tier, lessening some restrictions.
Despite the obstacles related to COVID-19, Community Life remains optimistic about events throughout the course of the rest of the year.
“We are really excited about our upcoming October events, despite COVID-19 limitations,” said Daniel Garcia, assistant director of New Student Programs. “We are learning to push our creativity and cater to students as much as possible.”
Paint Night was held Sept. 29 via Zoom. Students could pick up supplies at the Community Life Lounge or use supplies at home. Simmons Hall hosted an in-person component of Paint Night, projecting the livestream for its residents.
Lindsay Monroe, freshman mechanical engineering major, attended the in-person option for this event.
“It was really well done,” Monroe said. “Everyone was staying safe, masks were required and it was fun to follow along with the Instagram Live with the community of girls.”
October is Hispanic Heritage month, a celebration of Hispanic art, cultures and history. To kick off this month, Community Life hosted an informational booth in Stamps Courtyard Oct. 1. This featured cultural music, informational cards with fun facts and grab-and-go crafts. The first 100 students who attended were given snack bags. To adhere to COVID-19 guidelines, this event had strict line control and was an all-day event to limit the number of people there at any given time.
In a continued celebration of Hispanic Heritage month, Pixar’s “Coco” (2017) was shown Oct. 15 on the roof of the Recreation Center. Students reserved spots to participate in a movie night and were required to socially distance.
Open Mic Night will occur virtually on Oct. 20. Students on and off campus are invited to participate. Students living on campus can sign up for a performance slot in the Community Life Lounge, and students living off campus are encouraged to perform remotely. To maintain COVID-19 compliance during the event, only solo and duo performances are allowed.
“Halloween-go,” Halloween-themed bingo, will take place on campus on Oct. 29. This event will take place on the roof of the Recreation Center. Students are encouraged to wear costumes.
Hannah Lee, freshman film major, said she is grateful for the events giving some sense of normalcy.
“I am excited to be able to meet new people and try to get a normal college experience,” Lee said.
Events will continue to occur throughout this semester, as Riverside County’s COVID-19 tier permits.
