Union University’s freshmen ladies enjoyed a night of relaxation and fun at The Gathering, a Residence Life sponsored event, on Saturday, Sept. 1, at the McAfee Student Commons, where community was built over henna tattoos, “Just Dance” competitions, free crafts and more.
While it can simply look like students gathering together to enjoy a night free of schoolwork, Residence Life was very intentional by creating this event in order to further relationships and community among Union’s newest students.
Ashley Akerson, resident director of the Heritage complex, said ladies were encouraged to fellowship amongst friends with a night filled with laughter and heartfelt conversations.
“It was a joy to see so many students take a moment to rest and enjoy each other’s company,” Akerson said. “It’s crazy to think that this event was held only on the third weekend of the school year, yet there are already so many friendships being built.”
Res Life staff closed the McAfee Student Commons early Saturday to recreate a space that welcomed the ladies with a nail painting station, “Just Dance,” a Polaroid photobooth, henna tattoos, crafts and fresh breakfast (with heart-shaped bacon).
Laura Griffith, a sophomore TESOL and intercultural studies major, said it was a blast working with her “fellow gal RAs” to put together a night where girls could simply hang out together.
“It was beautiful to see so many girls involved in different things across campus come together to get to know one another in a casual and comfortable setting,” said Griffith. “I think this event provided a unique, relaxed and fun opportunity for girls to connect early on in the semester.”
Traditionally, Greek Life completes their week of sorority recruitment with Bid Day and other activities on Labor Day weekend, so Res Life created this event for girls outside of Greek Life to also have opportunities to get involved and meet new people.
Akerson said, on campus, Greek Life develops a great community for students, and Residence Life wanted to ensure that these distinctive relationships are being formed with all of Union’s students as well.
“I really enjoyed The Gathering because it was such a cute and fun way to fellowship and get to know the girls from my class,” said Chloe Jenkins, a freshman nursing major. “It helped me feel more connected, especially since I didn’t go through sorority recruitment.”
Akerson said she hoped to use this weekend as a special way to continue to love our students and that each lady left The Gathering feeling seen, heard and loved.
Photos Courtesy of Tamara Friesen
That’s what in major IT companies called team building!