RIC Kicks Off Fall Semester with Style

So, the first week of the fall semester is always a bit of a drag. Switching over from summer to school mode isn't an easy change. Going from lounging around at the beach to being buried in textbooks, and the debt that comes with them, can be one of the most stressful parts of the semester. So, to help us all blow off a bit of steam, the first weeks of classes are full of activities, events and trips that are either free or rather light on the wallet.

The College Humor tour came to RIC on Mon., Aug. 30 with Jake & Amir, where they performed in Sapinsley Hall. The wildly popular Internet comedy site, well known for its videos uploaded to YouTube and crude humor, is a big hit with college students. The show featured comedian Dan Levy, who is recognized as one of the nation's best college comedians. The show was hosted by the College Humor stars Jake and Amir. Plus, the tickets were free, so if you missed it, you missed out. Don't worry, though, because there will be plenty of more events just like it coming up.

Of course, that isn't the only event taking place on campus over the next two weeks. Be sure to check out the First Free Period Festival on Wed., Sept. 1 on the Quad for free food, chalk murals and much more. It's a great way to meet other students or just take in a bit of campus culture.

Programming, a student-run organization that plans most of the campus events, is hosting several activities on campus over the next few weeks. Tuesday, Sept.7, they host "Last Comic Standing" in Gaige Auditorium at 8 p.m. On Wed., Sept. 8 at 12:30 p.m., Programming also hosts "Biggest Loser" on the Quad. "Minute to Win It" will also take place on Sept. 8 in the Student Union Ballroom at 8 p.m. Finally, Programming hosts "Making the Band," on Thurs., Sept. 9 at 8 p.m. in Gaige Auditorium.

There will also be several welcoming receptions with each reception having a theme. On Tues., Aug. 31, there was a meeting for Student Veterans in the Faculty Center. Representatives of the Student Veterans Organization were on hand, as well as various veteran support groups. There was a reception for transfer students on Tuesday in the Alumni Lounge in Roberts Hall, as well.

On Wed., Sept. 1, RIC will host a Multicultural Mixer in the Unity Center from 4 to 6 p.m. The Out of State Students reception will take place on Wednesday also, from 7 to 9 p.m. Stop in to meet students from outside the area, and learn more about Rhode Island and Providence.

Also, the Students with Children reception will take place on Fri., Sept. 10 in the Student Union Ballroom from 3 to 6 p.m. This is a great way to meet other students who are also juggling having a family and school and to learn of community resources. Expectant mothers are welcome as well, of course, and children are allowed at the reception.

Student Activities will host its Labor Day weekend trips. While these are not free trips, you get a lot of bang for your buck. The Providence Scavenger Hunt will be Sat., Sept. 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The trip costs $3 for RIC students and $5 for non-RIC students.

There will be a trip to Newport on Sun., Sept. 5 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are $3 for RIC students, $5 for non-RIC. Boston for a Buck will be Mon., Sept. 6 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets will be $1 for RIC students and $5 for non-RIC. Guests of RIC students must be 18 or older in order to attend. RIC students under the age of 18 must have a parent's permission and a signed waiver.

RIC students will also be going to the Boston Red Sox vs. Tampa Bay Rays at Fenway Park on Tues., Sept. 7. The trip is for RIC students only, and tickets are $40 for seats or $30 for standing room. Be sure to get your tickets from the Student Union early.

RIC will also be having trips to Casey Farm: Organic Farm Tour on Fri., Sept. 10, and The Big E on Sat., Sept. 18 from 1 to 10 p.m. Check out the Student Union for more information on these trips.

Don't forget to check out or participate in Open Mic Night in the Student Union Café every Thursday at 7 p.m. Whether you're a poet, musician or want to be standup comic, all are welcome to take the stage or just enjoy the show.

The fall semester is shaping up to be a great semester, and with so many other events and activities coming, there's going to be a lot to do on campus. Make yourself part of it.