For over 100 years, Homecoming has been a tradition at the University at Buffalo. This year, in anticipation of the big football game against Marshall, the Student Association - as well as nearly every club, sports team and Greek organization - is going full-throttle to drive tradition and spirit into the student body.
Despite these efforts, apathetic students are quick to point out that our feelings of unity are weaker than most schools the size of UB. They cite a failing athletic program and low student turnout as symptoms of our weak sense of community. While their statements may be pessimistic, they do have some truth - many students are not even aware Homecoming is Saturday.
Spirit is not created overnight. Our school administrators and student government invest a great deal of money and effort in promoting these events, and unfortunately the benefits take years to manifest. Our football team's record is certainly depressing. Yes, we won't likely defeat Marshall, but that's not the point of Homecoming. Spirit Week is meant to create a sense of community between current UB students as well as our alumni, and a win from our sub-par football team should not be No. 1 on UB's priority list.
While the intentions of Spirit Week organizers are a step in the right direction, a sense of school pride may be realized sooner if Spirit Week events become more focused on truly instilling pride in our school - smashing things is fun, but does not necessarily make one proud to be a UB student. Neither do the students handing out Homecoming flyers at the same time, screaming "Come to Homecoming to f**k s**t up."
Nevertheless, there is a good foundation in place for creating school pride. UB students do have a reason to be proud. As students walk through the Student Union filled with window art and club tables, they should consider taking part in all the festivities revolving around Homecoming and Spirit Week.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
