There’s a bright spot ahead, in the midst of the start of the school year, for those students who are receiving their Aggie rings. After all their hard work and dedication, some students are able to get a piece of gold that holds more sentimental value than anyone can imagine.
On September 22, 2017, more than 30,000 people are expected to attend Aggie Ring Day. About 4,600 Aggies will be receiving their rings, and, as usual, the Clayton Williams Alumni Center will be crowded. If you are receiving your ring, or just going along for the ride, here are a few useful things you need to know.
If you have attended an Aggie Ring Day before, you know that the overwhelming amount of people does not reflect the amount of time you are actually there. Kathryn Greenwade, the Vice President for Communications and Human Resources at the Association of Former Students gave me some insight into the secret of their efficiency.
“During each Ring Day, we look at what works well and what can be improved and try to make those improvements for the next Ring Day. We have a well-oiled machine, starting with the group that plans Ring Day, continuing to more than 400 volunteers, who do everything from presenting Rings to helping direct foot traffic, and finally to our local first responders, who help to ensure the safety and security of all who visit the Clayton W. Williams, Jr. Alumni Center on Ring Day,” Greenwade said.
The planning that goes into Ring Day takes so much hard work and dedication. Without the amazing people who make up the organizational committee, Ring Day would not be possible.
“Our Campus Programs and Aggie Ring Program teams take the lead, and they work closely with our Events and Facilities teams on planning the logistics of Ring Day,” said Greenwade.
For those unfamiliar with Ring Day, here are a couple of important things to remember.
Pulling your Ring Day tickets might be as stressful as when you are about to submit an assignment at midnight and your internet goes down as 11:55 p.m. Spots fill up fast, so, if you want a certain time, make sure you log onto the website fast and pull your ticket.
For those who have overly proud families and even neighbors who want to come, you can bring them all! There is no limit on the amount of people you can bring with you, just make sure you have your ticket either pulled up your phone or printed to be able to pass through the gates into the Alumni center.
Like always, check the weather to know what you should wear. This is an important one, because you will be standing in line outside until you or your loved one get that ring.
Lastly, be on time! Because of the efficiency of the amazing committee organizers, the the lines speed through, and people get their rings quickly.
If you are receiving your ring, congratulations! You beat the hell out of (BTHO) 90 hours, and you are one step closer to graduation. If you are being there for a loved one, have fun cheering them on, and be proud!
