Issue date: 8/29/08 Section: Features

Media Credit: Chris Griffin [Click to enlarge]

Today marks the first weekend of the school year, which means that students will be out ready to celebrate the new semester, football season, or simply reunite with friends. While some have a weekend filled with plans, others are still getting acquainted with the University and College Station. The prospect of finding something to do on the weekends may seem overwhelming, especially to newcomers. Luckily, A&M provides a fun way to interact with people during the weekends without breaking the bank.

Aggie Nights is a program that invites students to participate in activities on-campus every Friday night. The organization takes over the Memorial Student Center with free food, games and prizes for the attendees. Reasonably timed from 8 p.m. to midnight, Aggie Nights is a convenient stop before heading over to Midnight Yell.

In addition, each week boasts a different theme or feature. Be sure not to miss out on tonight's first Aggie Night of the semester, Karaoke Night. This might be a good chance to show off those karaoke skills you have spent the summer perfecting playing Rock Band. Upcoming features this semester include Laser Tag at Rudder Fountain and Battle of the Bands.

Aggie Nights has teamed up with MSCC Aggie Cinema, which showcases films each Friday in Rudder Theater. Aggie Cinema plays current blockbuster movies as well as special sneak peaks to movies that have not yet been released in theaters. A few of Aggie Cinema's upcoming movies this semester include "Sex and the City," "Get Smart" and "The Dark Knight." Movie tickets are around $1, which beats the $10 price at many metropolitan movie theaters.

The collaboration with Aggie Cinema has been successful. A goal for Aggie Nights this year is to join forces with more student organizations.

"We have the potential to do really big things, especially if combined with other organizations," Lyndon Pryor, advisor for the MSC, said.

In October, Aggie Nights will be participating with MSC CAMAC, MSCC Town Hall and the MSC LT Jordan Institute for a Salsa Dance Night, complete with live Latin music, dance lessons and a dance competition.

Lyndon Pryor, MSC program advisor, said that Aggie Nights programs "engage students and provide opportunities for them."

"I think Aggie Nights is a great way for students, especially for freshmen and those living on campus, to meet people and not have to spend a lot of money," said Sarah Glenn, a senior human resource development major.

The Aggie Nights program launched in 2002 with a goal of providing safe, on-campus entertainment for students during the weekends.

Check out aggienight.tamu.edu and films.tamu.edu for event schedules.

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