The Office of Student Activities (OSA) has been offering a slew of new and improved activities to Elizabethtown College’s campus in the past year. On Jan. 17, they offered the “Cozy Crafting” event, meant to provide 

a warm and inviting environment where students could relax and engage in creative activities like coloring, gem art, and painting by numbers. Music played softly in the background, further contributing to the cozy atmosphere, while snacks and drinks were offered to all attendees, ensuring they had everything they needed to feel comfortable and at ease.

According to Katie Balzano, an OSA staff member and a sophomore majoring in graphic design and business administration, the purpose of the event was to create a stress-free environment for students at the start of the semester. She noted that the first week back on campus can be overwhelming, and OSA wanted to provide a chance for students to “color out” their stress and enjoy time with friends.

“We were actually not expecting as many people to show up right away,” Balzano said. “We kind of thought that, with it being the first week back, people might not want to sit inside coloring. But I couldn’t have been more wrong. Within the first 10 minutes, the room was already almost full.” In the Jay lounge, about 30 people attended from the first 15 minutes of the event.

The event was met with a positive response, as students from various academic backgrounds attended and shared their experiences. Hailey Erickson, a junior occupational therapy major, described the event as “very lively with a great turnout,” reflecting the energetic and welcoming environment created by OSA. Similarly, Kaitlyn McDermott, also a junior in occupational therapy, mentioned, “There were lots of people who showed up, and it was a great event,” emphasizing the success of the gathering in fostering community among students.

For many attendees, the event provided a much-needed break from their academic responsibilities. Michele Dauer McGarrett, a first-year double majoring in criminal justice and legal studies, expressed how the crafting activities allowed her to reconnect with a hobby.

“It’s very relaxing and allowed me to do a hobby I haven’t been able to do in a while,” McGarrett said.

The opportunity to de-stress through crafting and creativity was a welcomed relief after the busy start to the semester.

Other students, like Cassie Paschos, a senior majoring in occupational therapy, found the crafts both challenging and calming. 

“The craft I chose is very tedious, so I can see why it helps to reduce stress,” Paschos said. “It’s something that is needed after the first week of classes. OSA does a great job incorporating activities that are fun and for all.” 

The variety of crafts available allowed students to engage at their own pace, whether they preferred something simple or more intricate, making the event accessible to all levels of experience.

Jesslyn Lopez, a first-year neuroscience major, also appreciated the calming nature of the activities, noting that the event allowed her to meet new people and relax. 

“The craft I chose was very challenging but yet very calming,” Lopez said “I enjoy this event a lot. I was able to make new friends and will definitely go to more events like this to come. OSA did a great job with this event.”

The combination of soothing music, creative activities and an inviting space filled with snacks and drinks made the event a resounding success. Students could engage in a fun and creative way to unwind and enjoy each other’s company, showing the thoughtful planning and care OSA invests in making such events inclusive and enjoyable for all.