On September 13, Kean University held the annual Kean Day event, where students enjoyed food, music, and community while meeting various campus groups.

From 12 to 4 p.m., over 150 departments, offices, clubs, and organizations set up tables on Cougar Walk and the Miron Student Center Plaza, to showcase who they are and what they offer to students. Some of the groups in attendance were First Love Church, DND Club, Top Knotch, Sports Business Club, and Greek Organizations. 

Kean Day is all about exploring and getting involved to figure out where you make the best connections. 

“That’s the purpose of Kean Day. Today is one of those days where it’s beautiful weather outside, the energy is high, and students are excited to be out here,” said Vice President for Student Affairs, Kerrin Lyles.

Many of the tables drew in students as they played music and had giveaways. There were plenty of activities such as small games, photo booths and a station where you peddle a bike to blend a smoothie. Students also enjoyed drinks and foods from Coca-Cola, Vitamin Water, 7-Eleven, and Reign Total Body Fuel. There was a variety of food options, from sandwiches to empanadas, and plenty of vegetarian options from Bro-Ritos, Rainbao, and Latin Bites food trucks. While some Cougars were learning more about the clubs and organizations on campus, others enjoyed capturing the day by taking photos at the Photo Booth in their Kean Day T-shirts. 

Many students took this event as an opportunity to learn more about Kean and get more involved during their college journey.

“I was shy and [hesitant] to meet new people, but because I’m a senior, I’m trying to be more involved,” said Cecilia Calvo, a senior Business major from Puerto Rico interested in the Criminal Justice club.

Tyana Walters, a Biomedicine major and freshman from East Orange, expressed her thoughts on her first Kean Day.

“It’s fun because there’s a lot of different clubs I’m interested in. I like to see the different clubs that I may want to join potentially in the future, or now if I have the time,” said Walters.

Chetana Bidesi, also a Biomedicine major and freshman from Edison, explained why she decided to attend.

“I just wanna explore clubs related to my major. Maybe join some, be involved in college life,” said Bidesi.

She also shared why the Glam Club caught her attention. “You get to learn new hair and makeup and everything, so that’s helpful,” said Bidesi.

Kean Day is a high point for the Kean community as an anticipated event every year. The Kean faculty was excited to see students taking advantage of the school's resources. 

“This is a really great opportunity for our students, particularly our new students, to get an opportunity to see all of our clubs and our organizations, what we have to offer, all of the resources we have,” added Lyles, who had emphasized getting involved on campus at the Freshman Convocation in August.

The number of students on Cougar Walk is a testament to the beauty and success of Kean Day, which indeed was a success.