By Leeann Sanon | Staff Writer
Walking through gate three to enter the First Night event was like walking through a stampede of animals; The energy was high and contagious. Once you enter and walk towards the tables, the high is warned off and it is as if we’re reminded this is another hot summer day.
The event itself was unimpressive, but allowed relationships to be built as it was an opportunity to meet people. As a commuter school, it can be difficult to make friends outside of class without an event like this.
This is my second year experiencing First Night. As a freshman last year, First Night was the kick off for my college life. Now that I’m an upperclassman I see it differently. My distorted view is gone, and I am left with nothing but heat and sweat.
Not only was it hot, but also crowded with little room to move freely. At most tables, there were blobs of people instead of organized lines. In the future, formed and functioning lines should be implemented to avoid overcrowding, especially in case of emergencies. A barricade is needed to ensure the lines are processed smoothly.
It would also be beneficial for FIU to invest in overhead fans for the stadium as the heat was unbearable. Waiting in line felt like a wait with little to no gratification.
The free items themselves were not without strings, an Instagram follow, the obligatory follow was met with waiting for the Wi-Fi to load while making awkward and uncomfortable small talk.
It is understandable why clubs require an Instagram follow for a free item. After all this is a consumer-brand relationship.
I propose that FIU, or the organizations themselves, instill a system where students can pre-register for free items in order to mitigate long unruly lines. This would not be a necessary requirement to get a free item, but rather a way to combat slow signal or the lack thereof.
Once the free items start to diminish, so do the crowds. Then we’re left with nothing but over-filling trash cans and disheveled tables.
Many tables underestimate the amount of people who want free items. This leads them to be underprepared. I do understand that more than likely, the organizations were overwhelmed by the sheer number of people there.
If I did not experience First Night, I would assume it was a lively event because of social media. First Night was portrayed to be a glamorous event, but the reality is far from this.
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The opinions presented on this page do not represent the views of the PantherNOW Editorial Board. These views are separate from editorials and reflect the perspectives of contributing writers and/or university community members.
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