Janaya McCray-Boston, president of MCPB, talks about Weeks of Welcome and more.
TU Palooza is one of the major events that takes place during Temple’s Weeks of Welcome. Aiming to introduce new students to their peers as well as the campus, the Palooza has grown in both size and attendance over the past few years. Janaya McCray-Boston is a senior exercise and sports science major. She became president of the Main Campus Program Board – the organization behind TUPalooza – this fall semester, although she has been involved with the organization through other positions since last spring.
“If anyone doesn’t know what TUPalooza is, it’s basically our carnival at the beginning of the semester. It’s really for everyone, freshmen through seniors, basically for them to enjoy something before the semester starts” she stated.
As a senior herself, McCray-Boston enjoyed this year’s Palooza as a way to reflect on her collegiate career. “I think it’s especially important for freshmen and maybe even seniors to, you know, just reflect on their time at Temple and to get that sense of community before they have to leave and either the fall or the spring, you know, just remember Temple,” she said.
This year’s Palooza – like many before it – included games, festivities, and food, all provided by the MCPB and partnering vendors.
“When it’s time to execute Palooza, it’s a lot, because we do have to secure vendors. We have to make sure, you know, we have the proper space. It’s able to accommodate everyone. And then we also like to think of games along the way,” explained McCray-Boston.
Other events that the MCPB hosts throughout the year include First Friday Bingo and off-campus trips.
“[Bingo] is an alternative program. For those who may want to stay on campus but also want to have some fun on the weekend, we offer that space. . . they check-in, and then they get to win prizes throughout the night,” she said.
In terms of off-campus trips, students must sign up and sign waivers ahead of time, but it’s a great way to meet and bond with other students outside of classes.
“People usually meet their best friend or friends at an MCPB event, especially if this is your first time,” said McCray-Boston. “Usually, people are nervous, they’re scared, and it makes you like talking, because it has like, that welcoming environment that everyone can enjoy themselves [and] let loose.”
On the TUactivities Instagram account, students can learn about upcoming programs—like the recent trip to Hershey Park—hosted by the MCBP.
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