On April 19, from 4-7 p.m., the Residence Hall Association (RHA) hosted its annual Summer of Love event for students who live on campus.

Around 200 students attended the event, with this year’s theme being carnival. The event took place at the Tri-Hall field, with catered food, inflatables, tie-dying activities and lawn games. Small planters and T-shirts were also handed out to students.

This event is hosted as a way for students to take a moment of relaxation as the year comes to a close and the amount of studying increases. RHA also strives to use their events as a way of connecting with students and letting them know that they have a support system through the organization.

“We try to host it a couple weeks before finals just so students can take a break from their studies and enjoy the nice weather,” said Carmen Terrell, the coordinating officer of public relations and spirit for RHA.

You can expect more coming from RHA as we roll into finals week with the annual Pancake Breakfast on May 1 at 9:30 p.m. in the Culp Cafeteria, which is put on in partnership with the Housing Department and the National Residence Hall Honorary. A DJ is also set to make an appearance at the breakfast this semester.

“The Residence Hall Association is one of the largest student organizations on campus, because if you live on campus, you are automatically a member,” says Terrell. “We want students to know that they can build leadership, event planning, and advocacy skills by joining. It really is a fun organization to be a part of. I have been in it for almost three years, and I have learned so much and met a lot of wonderful people.”

RHA meetings take place on Wednesdays at 3 p.m. in the Culp Forum.

Photo of student completing the inflatable course at the “Summer of Love” event. (Dora Mercado/East Tennessean)

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