About 30 students attended the University Park Undergraduate Association (UPUA)'s first Freshmen Forum despite the heavy snowfall.

As students filed into the Mars Room in Johnston Commons, where the event was held, they were treated to Blue Band music, free pizza and refreshments. UPUA members began with a trivia game in which T-shirts and CDs were given as prizes.

UPUA's executive board then took turns addressing the crowd.

UPUA is here to act as an advocate for the students' interests, Jay Chamberlin, UPUA president, said.

"We are really interested in what you have to say," he said.

Mallory Gold, director of UPUA media relations, said the forum was a way for freshmen to get involved and for UPUA to hear concerns from students.

"It gives us a fresh look at University Park," she said.

UPUA Vice President, Mitch Belding, encouraged active participation. Students expressed concern for several issues, such as the lack of paper towels in dorm bathrooms, late buses, the quality of dining hall food and early morning classes.

Belding also briefly explained the different committees in UPUA and upcoming projects, which included possible advancements to the university's communication technology.

Several UPUA members stressed the importance of becoming involved in organizations as freshmen.

"You don't have to wait until junior or senior year," Brad Shively, UPUA webmaster, said.

Pat Gordon, UPUA at-large representative, said it's important to get out there and know who is representing you. Gordon himself is a freshman.

Being involved with UPUA helps with leadership skills and teamwork, Gordon said, while also accomplishing goals.

Kevin Hom (freshman- bioengineering) said he was interested in UPUA but wasn't sure about joining due to the ongoing debate between UPUA and the Undergraduate Student Government (USG), which now holds club status.

Kerry Roman (freshman- division of undergraduate studies) said she heard about the forum from a friend and was looking for leadership opportunities. Since she didn't know too much about UPUA prior to the forum, Roman said she thought the event was very informative.

Jake Keefe, public relations chairman, said UPUA hopes to make the Freshmen Forum an annual event.

The freshmen had good concerns, he said.

Gold said she thought the forum was a success and had a great turnout for a snowy day.

"I'm thrilled for the enthusiasm [shown tonight]," she said.