Jen Griffith (sophomore-wildlife and fisheries) was attending a class on the first floor and was among those told to leave the building.

"Everybody just ran out - everybody thought it was a drill," Griffith said.

Amy Neil, Penn State spokesperson, said Penn State Police Services responded to a fire alarm at 1:42 p.m., and because of the degree of the fire, the Alpha Fire Co. was summoned.

Tracy Dietrich, assistant chief in the Alpha Fire Co. said the firefighters arrived on scene at 1:51 p.m. and the fire was placed under control at 2:20 p.m.

Dietrich said the two-alarm fire was contained to the equipment room, and resulted in moderate heat and smoke damage.

Upon entering the building, firefighters "were met with heavy heat and smoke conditions," Dietrich said.

Kip Reybitz (senior-finance) watched as the fire began.

"We were looking at the second floor window and we saw a big flame go up and then everybody had to leave the area," Reybitz said.

About 350 students gathered around the building to watch as the Alpha Fire Co. fought the fire with the assistance of the Boalsburg Fire Company.

At 4:20 p.m., Wartik was reopened, and electrical power was restored. The equipment room remains closed while the investigation into the cause of the fire continues. But classes will continue as scheduled tomorrow.

Late yesterday afternoon, Fong said classrooms were open and things had returned to normal in the building.

"There may be a little smoke damage, but nothing major to affect activity," Fong said.

Collegian Staff Writer Jesse Munn contributed to this report.