Spring WelcomeFest Delights Iowa State Students
Iowa State University Memorial Union hosted the Spring Semester WelcomeFest on Jan. 23, 2025, at the Durham Great Hall. The event attracted a large crowd of students eager to explore various vendors and businesses offering free merchandise and valuable information.
Overwhelming Response from Students
Kristine Heflin, the associate director of the Memorial Union, highlighted the significance of the WelcomeFest in providing students with an opportunity to discover more about Ames and potential housing options for the upcoming year. The event served as a welcome distraction for students grappling with the initial weeks of the semester.
Briana Gould, a sophomore in apparel merchandising and design, expressed her surprise at the turnout, emphasizing the quality of items available at the event. The line outside the Durham Great Hall wrapped around the venue, indicating the high level of student engagement.
Diverse Range of Businesses and Programs
The WelcomeFest featured a wide array of vendors, including businesses, apartment residences, and Iowa State programs. Harley Thomas, a realtor at Hunziker Realty representing Copper Beech townhomes, seized the opportunity to inform students about housing options for 2025.
Abbey Sprague, the vice president of marketing at Members First Community Credit Union, aimed to educate students about the benefits of credit unions and their unique ownership structure. The event served as a platform for vendors to connect with students and showcase their offerings.
Biannual Tradition at Iowa State
The Spring WelcomeFest is a biannual event that plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between students and local businesses. Kristine Heflin emphasized the importance of introducing new vendors and opportunities to students, thereby enriching their campus experience.
Free Merchandise and Valuable Coupons
One of the highlights of the WelcomeFest was the distribution of free merchandise, including clothing items, stickers, and pins, by most vendors. Tierra Hauser, a sophomore in electrical engineering, appreciated the abundance of coupons available at the event, providing students with valuable discounts and incentives.
In conclusion, the Spring WelcomeFest at Iowa State University Memorial Union served as a vibrant platform for students to engage with businesses, explore housing options, and gather valuable information. The event’s success underscored the importance of fostering connections between students and the local community, enhancing the overall student experience.
