Thousands attend back-to-school events
Aug. 19, 2012 — Two August 18 events organized by Kansas State University’s housing and dining services helped thousands of students settle safely into their new on-campus communities.
Target provided an opportunity for students to purchase discounted housing and school supplies while enjoying entertainment, prizes and giveaways at an after-hours shopping event from 10:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Students also took advantage of a Target-sponsored shuttle service to and from several campus housing locations.
Students also attended The Late Night Breakfast at K-State’s Old Stadium from 11:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. Free pancakes and sausage, as well as a DJ, a showcase of K-State club sports and activities arranged by the Chester E. Peters Recreation Complex drew a crowd of nearly 3,800. Housing and dining services sponsored the event, along with the K-State Association of Residence Halls, the Office of Student Activities and Services, the Student Governing Association, the Union Program Council, the Alumni Association, the K-State Challenge Service and the K-State Student Union.
The Back-to-School Target shopping event and Late Night Breakfast were part of the university’s “Week of Welcome” program and represented an effort by the department to offer students a way to unwind from the stresses of move-in day and kick-start the new academic year.
“These events are designed to provide our students with a fun, safe way to get better acquainted with one another, the university and the Manhattan community,” said Derek Jackson, director of housing and dining services. “We want them to know we're thrilled to have them. Activities such as these inform students of the many resources available to them and help ease the anxiety of the changes they're undergoing.”
Additional Week of Welcome activities affiliated with the department include the Wildcat Carnival, which will feature games, a Ferris wheel and free food. The event is sponsored by the K-State Association of Residence Halls and takes place at Bosco Student Plaza on Tuesday, Aug. 21, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.