Pitt Program Council: more than just fun and games

It’s another night and, as usual, your friends can’t think of anything to do. You don’t… It’s another night and, as usual, your friends can’t think of anything to do. You don’t really want to leave campus, but there’s no way you’re up for staying in your dorm and watching another MTV marathon. No need to fret. Simply turn to Pitt Program Council to provide you with something fun to do for practically every night of the week.

PPC is the all-campus programming board. Its mission is to provide a variety of events and programs to all undergraduate students and to enrich their college experience outside of the classroom.

Whether you’re into music, movies, physical activity or travel, PPC has something for you. Let this be your guide to some of the events PPC offers and the number of opportunities you have as an undergraduate.

Have a knack for singing or performing written work? Then why not show off your stuff at one of PPC’s Open Mic Nights? Typically held once a semester in the William Pitt Union, Open Mic Nights usually feature acoustic guitar and piano performances, poetry readings, theatrical monologues, comedic performances and much more.

There’s nothing like watching a good movie after a long day in the classroom or at work. Each week in the Union, PPC plays the latest films before they’re even out for rental. All films are presented in wide screen with Dolby Digital surround sound. Some of last year’s films include “Talladega Nights,” “Clerks II,” “Superman Returns,” “The Departed” and “Dreamgirls.” The best part is that all these movies are free to students. Your Pitt ID is the only ticket you need.

PPC also has an excellent lecture series, bringing in interesting speakers who stand out in their respective fields. Last year students listened as Jodie Sweetin, everyone’s favorite middle sister from “Full House,” spoke about her battle with drugs. A few weeks later, students dressed to impress as Clinton Kelly, co-host of TLC’s “What Not To Wear,” talked about his life in the magazine and fashion industry and answered the students’ clothing questions, helping them with their “fashion emergencies.”

Even best-selling author, civil rights activist and educator Maya Angelou has spoken to Pitt students through the Pitt Program Council and so has Wes Craven, the renowned film writer and director.

While these events get a great turnout, PPC is best known for its annual “Bigelow Bash.” This spring event attracts thousands of people to its all-day fun and entertainment. On Bigelow Boulevard, between Forbes and Fifth avenues, PPC sets up a number of games and activities for all Pitt students. Over the years, these activities have included a three-on-three basketball tournament, a Velcro wall, root beer pong and hot dog and pierogi eating contests. You can also make your own beaded necklaces, airbrush T-shirts, paint a flower pot, take old-fashioned photos and get a henna tattoo or a massage.

In the evening, after Pitt students have had their fun with the games, a headlining band will take the stage and put on a free concert. Featured acts from past years include Ben Folds, The Starting Line, Phantom Planet and Live.

PPC has a similar event in the fall, fittingly named Fall Fest, which features the same types of games and activities as Bigelow Bash, as well as a free concert. Pitt students have had the opportunity to see Lifehouse, Hawthorne Heights and many more bands thanks to PPC.

But maybe you want to leave Oakland for a while. PPC can help you out with that, too. Are you thinking sun? Florida, maybe? For about 20 years, PPC has planned a spring break trip that gives students a much-needed break from their hectic lives at school and a chance to relax on the beach. While locations change from year-to-year, PPC has organized trips to Panama City Beach and South Beach Miami, among others.

And what better way to get your body swimsuit-ready than with a fitness or dance class? Each semester, the Leisure Learning Committee of PPC gives students the chance to take a number of fitness classes for a small fee. Last spring, for example, the roster included yoga, Pilates, body sculpting and aerobics.

But if Florida is too far or you already have plans, PPC also offers weekend trips. Its trip to NYC over the weekend before Martin Luther King Jr. Day is becoming a regular event, so if you’re into the city life, be sure to check that out. Remember, though, that it’s up to the Travel Committee to pick the destination, so instead of NYC this year, PPC might take you to some other fabulous place.

These are just a handful of the events PPC plans each year. Keep your eyes open once school starts, so you don’t miss something fun.

PPC is always looking for new members. Check out its website, www.pitt.edu/~ppc, to find out how to get involved or just to browse for upcoming events.