Following a prolonged break due to a campus-wide shutdown and winter recess, students were welcomed back to Oakland University at Winter Grizz Fest. The event marked the start of the winter semester and encouraged students to reconnect with campus life. Winter Grizz Fest created a welcoming atmosphere focused on involvement and engagement.
The event was hosted on Jan. 8 in the Founders Ballrooms of the Oakland Center. Student organizations, clubs, societies and campus departments gathered to connect directly with students.
“Meeting people face to face is such an important part,” Eliana Hoekstra, volunteer coordinator for the Pre-Med Society, said. “When you come in person, you can meet, interact with them and get questions answered.”
Around 50 tables were set up throughout the ballroom, giving students a wide range of opportunities to explore. Academic groups, cultural organizations, Greek life, sports clubs and support services were all represented. The layout allowed students to move freely and discover new interests at their own pace.
Oakland University’s diverse student population was reflected in the number of culturally focused organizations present. These groups aim to help students feel represented and connected on campus.
“We have a pretty big international student group and we get new students every semester,” Rama AlHyari, co-president of the Jordanian Student Association, said. “They’re going to be homesick and want to reconnect with their culture.”
Several organizations highlighted inclusivity through shared interests, groups like the World Music Organization emphasized learning through collaboration and creativity. These clubs encouraged students to explore cultures in accessible and welcoming ways.
“It’s a place where we can learn how to play music that’s not native to the United States,” Donovan Marlin, secretary of the World Music Organization, said. “It’s super beginner-friendly; anybody from any kind of background can join.”
Students also had opportunities to connect with organizations centered on academic and professional development. These groups focused on helping students build skills while forming meaningful social connections. Many emphasized mentorship and career exploration alongside community building.
“Our club, Association of Women in Communications was brought back this semester,” Ruby Hernandez, president of the organization, said. “We empower women in the communications field and help students figure out what they want to do with their lives.”
Winter Grizz Fest also served as a recruitment opportunity for organizations rebuilding or expanding their presence on campus. Club leaders used the event to raise awareness and attract new members. Visibility and face-to-face interaction played a major role in those efforts.
“The E-board graduated a couple of years ago and now we’re working on bringing it back,” Hernandez said. “We’re hoping to make it more public, so that’s why we’re here today at Grizz Fest.”
Academic support organizations highlighted the importance of connection and shared goals. These groups aim to help students grow personally and professionally throughout their time at the university. Support systems were presented as essential to student success.
“It’s important that we keep growing as a university and for students to have these support systems,” Hernandez said. “It really is our future we’re paying for here, so it makes sense to put in all efforts to reach our goals.”
