October 5, 2022
Whereas highschool and faculty homecoming carefully resemble one another, the group that faculty homecoming creates makes it extra rewarding and gratifying.
Homecoming is a tradition that started at numerous universities all through the U.S. within the early 1900s as a fall celebration, welcoming alumni again for the primary soccer sport of the season. Faculty homecoming occasions interact the varsity group and usually culminate with a soccer sport.
Pitt’s homecoming dates back to the Nineteen Forties, when college students and alumni got here collectively to carry out skits, make floats for a parade and elect a homecoming court docket. This 12 months, Pitt began off its homecoming celebration Monday with a kick-off occasion providing free t-shirts, meals and music. Pitt also held a scavenger hunt on Tuesday, and can maintain a Hail 2 Paint Evening on Wednesday, a “Roc Speak” with former soccer participant Tre Tipton on Thursday and the Blue & Gold Bash on Friday.
Particular Pitt colleges and packages, such because the Faculty of Computing and Info on Thursday and Faculty of Legislation on Friday, are internet hosting their very own actions. The week will finish with an thrilling Saturday soccer sport towards Virginia Tech and enjoyable alumni tailgate the place college students can increase their Pitt group even additional.
One in all my favourite actions is “the snake,” the place the Pitt band marches round campus and performs outdoors the Cathedral of Studying.
In comparison with highschool homecoming, faculty homecoming — crammed with a way of group, custom and spirit — is extra impactful. In faculty, alumni join with former classmates, and college students be taught from alumni who’ve been in the identical place as them throughout homecoming, whereas in highschool, homecoming tends to deal with superficial faculty dances, spirit week and dance proposals. It’s extra in regards to the present pupil physique than a complete group.
Even nominations for homecoming king or queen usually flip right into a trivial reputation contest in highschool, and these titles heteronormativity. As society re-evaluates gender roles, it’s vital to eliminate traditions which may isolate some college students.
Pitt’s Alumni Affiliation removed the “antiquated” gendered titles of homecoming king and queen in 2020, opting as an alternative for 2 gender-inclusive “Spirit of Pitt” winners. This alteration exhibits Pitt’s dedication to inclusion on campus, and is a step different universities and excessive colleges ought to take.
Faculty homecoming is steeped in wealthy traditions that make celebrations distinctive at each college. Faculty college students ought to recognize the sources and group that homecomings create and ensure to attach with alumni visiting campus.
Emily O’Neil writes primarily about societal points, politics and campus life. Write to her at [email protected].
