For the first time in two years, students gathered in person for a day dedicated just to them. There was good food, games, giveaways, and music. Thanks to the Office of Student Affairs and Community Engagement (SACE), students were able to spend a couple of hours unwinding and relaxing, a welcome respite as the end of the academic year nears.
“This is probably the best thing the university has done since we came here,” said College of Dentistry student Caleb Crow. “Everything was virtual before this, so this is the first day we’ve had all the colleges together and the first experience we’ve had like this.”
Previously scheduled to be an outdoor event, Student Appreciation Day was moved inside due to weather. But that didn’t stop SACE from transforming the gym in the Student-Alumni Center into an adult playground.
“It’s really unexpected for a university to put aside a day for us like this. I didn’t know we had this kind of thing. It’s nice to have a mid-day break and treat ourselves, especially now that we’re near the end of our first year when things start feeling hectic,” said first-year College of Medicine student Allycia Lee.
Students from all six colleges enjoyed lunch from a local restaurant, choosing from Maciel’s Tortas and Tacos, StickEm, and One and Only BBQ. Desserts were provided by Mempops and Sweet Magnolia Gelato. Students were able to blow off some steam with giant tabletop games, corn hole, music, and plenty of dancing. And, as a party favor, each student left with a T-shirt decked out with a custom UTHSC Tennessee Tri-Star.
“It’s nice to know we’re not just numbers, that UTHSC actually cares about the
students,” said College of Health Professions student Hunter Allen. “I like having days like this. It’s pretty special. Graduate school is stressful and days like today make it a little bit easier.”
