My senior year of high school, shortly before I decided that I was going to Penn State, Timothy Piazza died as a result of a fraternity hazing incident. So, when I would tell people I was going here, I would sometimes get that look of “oh Penn State, you know what just happened right.” While I didn’t really appreciate this reaction, I was nonetheless proud of where I chose to go to school and was ready to finally be a Penn Stater in my own right. This weekend, regardless of previous scandals and negative associations related to Penn State, made me so proud to be a student here. While THON every year makes me proud, there was something so special this year because we could not be in the BJC.
Even though we could not be there, the THON show still went on. One of my roommates danced at an Airbnb with her organization and their pair, which was so special to be a part of. They did not have all the same resources as at the BJC to keep them awake and entertained. They did not have their org behind them in the stands showing their support. Yet, they all have been on their feet all weekend long. It truly goes to show that it was not about the accolade or attention of being able to dance (for them), it was really all about their passion for THON. The feeling of being in the midst of a virtual pandemic, yet THON still happening and so many amazing students dancing is indescribable.
This weekend also reminded me of a lesson I have learned many times over from THON and other organizations. My THON experience has been far from what I imagined coming into college or even freshman year, due to circumstances mainly out of my control. However, I came to realize that my passion for a mission’s organization should not falter because of disappointment related to involvement in the organization. For example, I was not chosen in the lottery of independent dancers (a different year) which frankly, sucked, but does not take away from how much I care about THON or the importance of the mission, which is important to remember. FTK!
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