ER1

For my first event, I attended the pool party NDNU’s Black Student Union hosted on Saturday, September 10, 2016. A number of people showed up at the event and it was very entertaining. It was hosted from 12–4 pm, and I went with a few friends. The atmosphere was light; and everyone who attended just enjoyed each other's company and either swam in the pool or just talked in small groups in the lounge chairs. I feel that a get-together like this is beneficial for the school community; it is even better because NDNU is a relatively small campus and the students can meet new people and come to know soon–to–be familiar faces. Because I went with a few of my friends, I found myself having a nice and relaxing time right from the beginning. I did not feel hesitant to meet new people or even just having them near me because everyone seemed nice and welcoming. The people who attended talked with their own groups of friends and it was nice to see because at least they were communicating with one another. Not only that, I also enjoyed seeing other people be comfortable and happy around each other, and it brought me joy to know that it is not always a negative thing to push one’s self out of his or her comfort zone.

As a community, it is imperative that we make the effort to come to know each other through various on-campus events. It does not have to be formal all the time either because a casual gathering like the pool party gives a comfortable setting for the people who plan to attend. The pool party was a great way to enliven the community spirit because it helped bring the students together to make new friends and come to know each other better. Since some students can be shy and reserved, an event such as the BSU pool party is an efficient way to get them to branch out of their comfort zone. And hopefully, with this event, the students will be more encouraged to attend future school events that will occur throughout the year.