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 Photo by Carrie Chin / STUDENT PUBLICATIONS |
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| The Aquatic Center, once frequented by Olympic swimmers, was filled with "icebergs" and opened up for a viewing of the movie Titanic. | |
RHA, in an effort to capture the essence of the movie, went to great lengths to transform the familiar Aquatic Center into a realistic replica of the northern Atlantic Ocean. The pool was open, and a large screen projected the three-hour epic to entertain their guests. Freshmen were invited to float on large stylized "icebergs," enjoy pizza and drinks, and watch Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet battle hypothermia.
This event was open to the incoming Freshmen and was one of the many RATS week activities planned by the RATS Week Committee, chaired by Dr. Karen Kellogg, Assistant Director of Success Programs. "One thing I really like about the Swim-In Theatre," said Dr. Kellogg, "is that it is a fun, nonthreatening way for freshmen to get a taste of college life! And it is great to see how departments from all over campus have come together to plan such a great week for our freshmen!"
The coordinator of such past events as Festival Behind the Fence, Comedy Month, and Movies at the Fountain to name a few, the Residence Hall Association is dedicated to making the on-campus experience a special and cherished one. Hemanth Meka, Vice President of RHA. "We are really here for the students. Putting up top class events such as this enhance the experience of being at Tech. What other school can show a movie of such proportions in an Olympic Pool...with icebergs to match!"
Incoming freshmen often have a difficult time adapting to the altogether new situation of living at school, far from home, where they know few other people. The movie event was intended to introduce new students to each other and show them the lighter side of attending Tech. When told of RHA's plans, President Wayne Clough, a Tech alum, advised freshmen, "Get out before anyone freezes! Remember, this is not a computer simulation!"
Putting together the unusual event took a great deal of coordination on the part of SAC, FASET, RHA, the Student Center, Housing, Communications, and even Domino's Pizza. Several RHA officers spent their quarter break finishing last minute details.
"It's amazing how they all came together ...this event really wouldn't have happened if it wasn't for them", said Meka.
Moviegoers were encouraged to don bathing suits and take a dip in the pool while the Titanic unsuccessfully attempted to cross the Atlantic. Blue diamond jewelry and 1912 suits were optional, of course.