HEP Day of Play

Plenty of sun, smiles at HEP Day of Play

Many East Carolina University students listened and gladly participated as they walked by the Carol Belk Building on Tuesday and some were approached by faculty members to join in casual outside activities.

Sunny skies, especially during the lunch and afternoon hours, added to what attendees described as a relaxing and fun environment for the Helping Every Pirate Day of Play event.

College of Health and Human Performance faculty members urged nearby students to spin a wheel for prizes or a play a game of Jenga or throw a Frisbee or scribble out encouraging notes or artwork for their peers. Some students had already heard about the event in their classes prior to Tuesday. Healthy snacks also were available.

A goal of Day of Play was to continue to mesh students with faculty in constructive and safe outdoor settings.

“I was talking to my adviser the other day about how we’ve liked being back to in-person (instruction and events),” said Nathaniel Berhe, a junior public health major. “This is definitely a good event to be at to meet people and make some connections. It can help to learn more about what you’re actually involved in.”

This was the first HEP Day of Play event.

Event organizer Kelli Russell, a teaching assistant professor in Health Education and Promotion, said the idea began from discussions about office hours and how to engage with students outside of the Belk Building. Russell expected a total of about 300 students in attendance throughout the day.

“We love our students,” Russell said. “We are glad they are out here and we want them to enjoy their time with HHP. I think we understand mental health is important and we want them to be the best they can be.”