As popular hip-hop and Latino beats played from large speakers in the corner, about 250 students filed into HUB-Robeson Center's Heritage Hall last night for the Multicultural Resource Center Fall Orientation.
Music beats aside, the evening was more of a chance for minority students to learn about the different resources provided at Penn State.
"We're your Google," said Wayne Gersie, coordinator for the center's fall orientation and academic counselor.
The center provides resources and information to any underrepresented students, he told the crowd.
Last night's event was not directed toward international students but toward incoming freshmen who are from minority backgrounds, such as black, Hispanic, American Indian and Asian heritage, said Lea Ann Bloom, staff assistant for the center.
Before the program began, some students were anticipating what was to come that evening.
"I want to see how diverse Penn State is," Felicia Gilbert (freshman-computer engineering) said.
Other speakers informed students about some of these opportunities to connect what they have learned in classes with what they do outside of the classroom.
R. Lynn Sydnor, national recruiter for a program called INROADS, spoke about the organization's mission.
"Our mission is to develop and place talented minority youth in business and industry to prepare them for corporate and community leadership," Sydnor said.
She added the program provides students with paid internships in the summer and requires an application from students.
Toby Jenkins, director of the Paul Robeson Cultural Center, said there are different opportunities the center provides, such as study space and cultural engagement events.
"The Paul Robeson Cultural Center helps you enjoy your college experience," Jenkins said.
The University Park Ensemble performed "The Night Before University Park" skit to touch on some issues of new students. Also, An Trinh, volunteer instructor for the Penn State Ballroom Dance Club, and Thaikisha Alvarez (senior-civil engineering) entertained the crowd with salsa dancing.
Bret Mooney (freshman-accounting) said he came because he heard about the dancing performances and the door prizes.
Terrell Jones, vice provost for educational equity, concluded the event.
"You only get one chance to make a first impression," he said. "Make it a good one."
