On the night of October 24, Andrews University hosted the annual Fall Festival at Johnson Gym, to the delight of students and families all across campus. Split into two separate times, the event officially started at 5:00 PM for graduate and seminary students, allowing for their children to enjoy the targeted events like “Trunk-or-Treat,” and opened at 7:30 PM for undergraduates.
A steady storm rumbled outside, but students taking part in the fun stayed warm while munching on kettle corn and sipping on hot cider and cocoa. Beyond fall-themed treats, there was also the option for hot dogs with all types of fixings. These hot meals were provided for free to students and guests by Bon Appétit and served by volunteers from Andrews University’s Student Association (AUSA). T Bruggemann (junior, computer science and physics) described the experience: “I enjoyed volunteering at Fall Festival! I was serving food, and I’m not gonna lie, I think Bon Appétit actually did a good job with it that night. The event itself was also fun to be at, even just on the periphery.”
Well-fed students were surrounded by many options of entertainment that the University provided. Massive bounce houses and a mechanical bull took up the center of the gym. But for those who may want something more artistic than athletic, there was a pumpkin painting booth hosted by the Women’s Empowerment Association of Andrews University (WEAAU). President of the club, Caryn Cruz (junior, English) described her experience running the booth, “Though there was a lot of running around, cleaning up, and preparation of supplies it was nice to see parents, kids, and fellow students bond over this event. I’m glad I was able to help facilitate this kind of experience for those who attended!” The pumpkin painting was another successful part of a fun night.
Along with free snacks and entertainment, the event was filled with live music. Student performers were the power behind the night’s soundtrack. Bands played cover songs of popular tracks and students came together to sing melodies with classic hits from Disney movies. One of the night’s performers, Samantha Cardwell (sophomore, piano performance) says of the night, “I was super nervous and a bit stressed at first, but then when I started singing, I really just enjoyed and lived in the moment. it was nice to hear people cheering, it gave me a sense of comfort and I really appreciate everyone who supported me.” With live music adding to the cheerful environment, the Fall Festival was ultimately a great way to welcome in the season.
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.