Griswold
Journalism
Dan
Jackie Freiberg and Kaylyn Rossi, recent graduates from Penn State had years of experience at the Interfraternity/Panhellenic Dance Marathon, but had never actually danced. They won the chance to dance in 2014 by raising the most money in a contest run by the Dance Marathon Alumni Interest Group.
The Interfraternity/Panhellenic Dance Marathon, often abbreviated to "THON", is a 46 hour dance marathon held annual at Penn State's University Park campus in order to raise money for Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital's Four Diamonds Fund, which helps families who have children battling pediatric cancer
Freiberg graduated in 2012 and lives outside of Philadelphia, Pa. while Rossi graduated in 2013 and lives in Baltimore, Md. The two made the drive to State College on the Thursday night prior, so they could begin their first dancing experience in THON the following day.
Sheridan Woika has an interesting way of practicing his craft, and making lunch money, with an unusual instrument.
Usually twice a week, Woika, a Penn State student majoring in information sciences and technology, will go to different locations on College Avenue and play a melodica, which combines elements of the piano and trombone, among others, Woika’s two favorite instruments.
In addition to getting practice for band performances and making money, Woika is trying to see if people respond more to upbeat music or downbeat music. And while the sample size isn’t too large yet, he’s noticed the upbeat music being better received, including donations.
Woika is considering a break from his studies at Penn State, in order to focus more on his music.