Scavenger Hunt kicks off Springfest 2011

Over 400 students at the University of Illinois Springfield are spending the week competing in a variety of fun and educational competitions as part of Springfest 2011.

The week-long challenge began on Monday night with a campus-wide Scavenger Hunt, which started in the gym of The Recreation and Athletic Center (TRAC). Over 30 student teams took part in the event.

“I thought it was going to be something really boring, but it turned out to be really fun and just amazing,” said Daniel Aguilar, a freshman Political Science major.

The Scavenger Hunt was made up of a list of over 200 items, which students were limited to finding only on campus. Participants were not allowed to use cars, bikes, or other transportation and were required to try and collect all the items in only an hour.

“I had a great time. My team, I love them, there’s so much energy,” said Paulina Pogorzelski, a senior Criminal Justice major.

Some of the stranger items on the Scavenger Hunt list this year included a croquet set, surf board, and a group member sporting a Mohawk.

“It was a fun, amazing experience I’ll never forget,” said Aguilar.

Springfest is one of the longest running student traditions on campus, which started in 1992. The number of students involved every year continues to grow.

“We get the faculty involved, students, campus offices also get involved, so it’s good for the community,” said Rebecca Roche, Springfest co-chair and traditions coordinator.

Students say they look forward to the competition every year, not only because it’s fun, but because it helps them meet their fellow students.

“If you sum it up in words it’s fun, friendship, and loyalty,” said Hilary Holmes, a senior Biology major.

For a complete list of Springfest activities visit: www.uis.edu/studentlife/thingstodo/Springfest.html