On Monday, Apr. 8, several students, faculty, staff, and administration took to Third Street. With tables lining the parking lot, the countdown to the eclipse was on.

Students with various majors and backgrounds had the opportunity to get a free pair of glasses for safe eclipse viewing, while exploring the different tables. Students also had the opportunity to enjoy yard games provided by Herron Rec and Fitness Center. One popular spot was the pop-up tent hosted by CalPADining AVI. This tent featured sweet and unsweetened tea with moon pies.

One student in attendance, Laniah Walker, who is a Political Science major with a concentration in Pre-Law and a minor in Criminal Justice said it was a great event.

Walker stated, “It’s very important to host events to bring the community out. There were such diversity there. Black, white, men and women, and even staff/faculty were out with the students. Events like these that bring everyone on campus out and together really promotes the unity and livelihood on campus we’ve all been wanting to bring back to Cal.”

Walker also highlighted AVI’s table by saying, “The tables outside, the drinks and snacks really brought people together. It was cute seeing all the efforts to make the snacks and treats look like moons.”

Another student in attendance was Junior Sydney Murrin who is majoring in Graphic Design. She mentioned her favorite part of the Eclipse Watch Party was being able to marvel at the sky with everyone. She stated, “I didn’t get to see any of the eclipse from 2017, so it was quite the experience to gather with everyone and experience such an event together.”

Murrin also highlighted the importance of these events to Cal’s campus. Murrin stated, “These types of events are important for students to build more of a community and togetherness, as well as remind us all that life is so much more than just work and classes. Being able to get outside in the middle of the day and spend a few hours away from work and classes is always fun, especially doing it together while witnessing such an event.”

Throughout the event, students were able to go around to the different tables and talk to everyone. One table at the event was sponsored by New Life.

Anna Stewart, a Junior and Criminal Justice Major stated, “These types of events bring people together. For example, New Life was able to make cupcakes to hand out and they put a smile on so many faces.”

Toby Miller, a Junior and Meteorology Major highlighted his favorite part of the eclipse. Miller stated, “This process doesn’t happen in the same place every year so having totality happen fairly close to the campus made it really nice.”

While Cal’s campus may not have been in 100% totality, it was a wonderful event for all to gather. Music was provided by WCAL. PennWest University Interim President, Dr. Bernotsky, also spoke during the event and visited with many students.