Mark Pralle (junior-hotel, restaurant and institutional management) said he was looking forward to attending a meeting for Students and Youth Against Racism.
But when he arrived at the location, no one was there.
The meeting was canceled due to low student participation.
Although overall interest among Penn State students regarding diversity organizations is not lacking, attendance to these events at the end of the semester is, said Sara Ryan, Undergraduate Student Government (USG) director of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, allied (LGBTA) affairs.
"Students are burnt out," she said.
"It is also cold out and that makes it harder for students to want to leave their rooms [and attend events]," Ryan added.
The increased workload leading up to finals week is also a major factor, she added.
David Davis, Black Caucus president, said students are now taking the time to prioritize their schoolwork.
"It is not a lack of commitment," he said.
Ryan said group officers are the only members who should be expected to maintain consistent attendance throughout the semester.
"Right now, there is a core group of 18 people on the executive board [of LGBTA affairs] that are at every meeting," Ryan said. "Earlier in the semester, there is around twice that number."
She also said in order for groups to gain new membership, they must advertise on campus to reach the large student population.
However, with so many organizations, Ryan said students can become overwhelmed by all the options.
"The bulletin boards with all the fliers posted on them are intimidating."
Kathrine Klapacz (sophomore-industrial engineering) said advertising in places that students frequent during the day -- such as classrooms -- will also raise awareness.
Students can explore organization options at the Division of Student Affairs Web site at www.sa.psu.edu.
"It is convenient to have access to the Internet," Ryan said. "Once a student attends a meeting, the organization usually sets up a listserv so they will be contacted for future events."
