The spirit of homecoming week brought SMU students together Monday night at Westcott Field for the annual Rock the Vote homecoming event. Members of participating organizations came out to show their support as each homecoming candidate was
introduced.

Hundreds of sorority girls flooded the sidewalks of Airline drive as they marched their way towards the soccer field sporting their chapter jerseys and carrying matching balloons. Funny hats and tutus, loud noisemakers and glittery posters were on display to celebrate SMU homecoming week.

Rock the Vote is hosted by SMU Student Foundation and is an essential component of homecoming week every year. According to Student Foundation president Antonea Bastian, it’s a great way to get everyone involved and pump up spirit.

“Rock the Vote is one of the most important things that we do as it gets everyone ready for homecoming week. It allows the entirety of an organization to be involved and feel like they are a part of helping their team,” Bastian said.

With the stands full of cheering students and loud music, homecoming candidates walked toward the stage on the field where they were introduced in pairs. After participants were introduced they were asked one question.

Questions ranged from “what was the last thing you were grounded for?” to “what was your worst date?” This allowed everyone to get to know the candidates on a more personal level.

According to senior Kappa Kappa Gamma candidate Mackenna Scripps, “It was clear everyone was having such a good time, through the loud cheers, the funny questions/answers and the amazing performances. Everyone is involved!”

In addition to candidate introductions, Rock the Vote featured performances by the Mustang Band, NPHC Steppers and the Mustang Mavericks.

With performances by different SMU organizations and so many students in attendance, Westcott field with radiating energy and school spirit. “My favorite part was seeing all the spirit every organization brought to the event. There is so much energy and school pride that made the night so much fun,” Scripps said.

Participating organizations chose their representatives based on various factors such as GPA, campus involvement, overall likeability and more.

Zack Shainsky, a junior SMU student and member of Sigma Chi fraternity, said its homecoming candidate Andy George was chosen based on his easygoing personality. “Andy is a fun loving, spirited guy who everyone in the fraternity likes to be around,” Shainsky said.

This year Student Foundation wanted to include the freshman class in the homecoming fun by adding a special event for them. “We added a freshmen rally right before Rock the Vote to involve them,” Bastian said.

Homecoming week festivities continue with float building all week and will end with the parade at 11 a.m. Saturday before the football game. The homecoming king and queen will be announced Saturday on the football field during halftime.