Has your favorite Meredith College woman been posting weird pictures on her social media? Is she saying phrases like, "We're corny for unity," or even telling you about an odd skit with dances that she has been preparing? Has she mentioned anything regarding Bigs and Littles or possibly -- yes, you heard them right -- Hog Callin'? Oh, you have a treat in store for you!
Cornhuskin' is one of Meredith College's most beloved and anticipated annual traditions. If you're reading this, your Meredith Angel probably tagged you to read this in preparation for Friday, and you should definitely thank her! Here are some helpful hints for surviving Cornhuskin' that'll make your experience even better.
What to wear, what to wear?
Is your Angel an Even or Odd? This is really important! Although we encourage unity and we support each other here, Cornhuskin' is a friendly competition, after all. If her graduation year ends in an even number, then she is an Even. If it ends with an odd number, then she is an Odd. Very simple! Try to wear something or hold something that says "Even Mom" or "We love 2016!" Chime in with the fun -- it's worth it! The most important thing to remember, though, is to bundle up! Bring multiple layers and blankets to keep you toasty during this long event. If you're a significant other reading this, consider earning brownie points with your Meredith lady by wearing something like "Go 2017! -- Alexandra's Boyfriend." Do what you're comfortable doing and have fun with it!
The parade is at 3:30 p.m.!
There is always traffic problems before the parade, so plan to be on campus at least an hour before the parade is supposed to start. The front entrance (the main entrance) will be closed, so plan accordingly. The best place to park would be "down yonder," which is behind Heilman Hall, and this parking lot is located right next to the Faircloth entrance, which is the only other entrance into the school so you'll be in that area anyways. The parade itself is on the main street of Meredith College: walk along the auditorium next to Heilman Hall to get to the front street. Don't bother trying to meet up with your Meredith student before the parade, for she'll be getting ready at this time! The parade is in this order: freshwomen, sophomores, juniors and then seniors. After the parade is over, the seniors will sing back and forth with the sophomores. It's super cute!
What's with the themes?
Every class has a theme that they incorporate with all aspects of Cornhuskin'. Themes are important because they are what originally draws the audience -- and judges -- into having favorites. The themes are revealed among the classes a couple of days before Cornhuskin', and you'll be able to tell what the themes are during the parade. A few popular themes from the past include spin-offs of "Harry Potter," "Scooby-Doo," super heroes, Dr. Seuss, "The Lion King," "Monster's Inc." and "Maleficent."
What do you want to do with your break?
There is a small break between the parade and the actual Cornhuskin' event. This is the perfect time to get pictures with your Meredith Angel or even grab a quick bite to eat! It is highly recommended that you plan this part of your evening in advance so that no time is wasted. You could go back to your student's dorm or apartment for a pre-planned meal or you may also go to the Cornhuskin' Picnic that is from 4:45 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. in the Belk Dining Hall Courtyard. Your student will have to meet up with her class at a predetermined time, however. When you part ways, this would be a good time for you to go to your viewing area. You could also spend a part of this time viewing the tunnel that the seniors paint every year. Your Meredith Angel will know how to get there!
In or out?
Did you receive an actual ticket for Cornhuskin'? If you did, then you are going to be sitting outside. If you didn't, then you get to choose between Jones Auditorium and Jones Chapel for a live viewing. The ticket distribution for students is a tricky one, for it is a lottery, and they could possibly receive up to two tickets and sometimes not even one. If you weren't able to get one, then don't worry! You'll get to sit in a temperature-controlled room. There are definitely pros to both viewing areas; you'll either get to see the event live or you'll get to be warm for the viewing.
Categories? Points? What?
Cornhuskin' is separated into several different categories that are all weighed differently on a point scale. The most important categories include skit and class spirit. The skits all must be fifteen minutes long: anything over that time limit will get the class disqualified from receiving points for this category. When you walk around campus, you'll see a bunch of chalk art, items hanging from trees and signs about unity from all of the classes. It will be announced which class placed first, second, third and fourth in all of the categories when all of the skits are completed. I would tell you about all of the categories that you'll be witnessing, but you'll just have to experience it for yourself!
A few suggestions for while you watch:
If you're outside, bring hand warmers to keep your hands toasty! Also bring an extra blanket or jacket to sit on; those brick seats in the amphitheater are not only a bit uncomfortable after a while, but they are also super cold this time of year! Feel free to cheer on your student's class for every event and don't worry about embarrassing her. Having you there to support her makes this experience so much better! Consider bringing a thermos with hot chocolate, as well, and it wouldn't hurt to pack a couple of snacks in a bag. Also, don't forget to take pictures for your Meredith student. She's going to want to see them when this event is over!
What happens when it's over?
When Cornhuskin' ends, students will be taking pictures with each other and looking for their friends and families. It's easiest if you and your student predetermine where you'll meet, but you may just have to play it by ear. This event runs late into the night, so if you're coming from a far distance it may be best to plan to stay in a hotel that night. If you aren't worried about the time, consider going to the Cornhuskin' Breakfast and After Party at Belk Dining Hall. It is inexpensive and it's a great opportunity for the students to hang out with their friends as well as their guests. Plus there are door prizes!
It is important to remember that...
Cornhuskin' is meant to be, well, corny! This event encourages all of the classes to participate in a large event together, and it is always fun to watch fellow peers in dances and skits. This is the first large event that the freshwomen participate in at Meredith College, and it is a successful aspect of what makes us all feel like a sisterhood. Not only do we bond with our own classes at the late-night Cornhuskin' practices, but we also get to show the other classes the love that we have for one another.
Oddlyenough, we're Even better together!
