Student Activities Committee Fun!

Contrary to popular belief, Gemstone isn’t all about research—there are also many leadership opportunities and ways to get involved in the program. Within the Gemstone Student Council, the student activities committee (SAC) works hard to plan social events for the Gemstone-Ellicott community throughout the year. For Valentine’s Day, SAC and Ellicott Residence Hall Association (RHA) worked together to host a valentine-decorating event. Students were able to come down to the first floor lobby to decorate valentines. Residents wrote the name of their friend, significant other, etc. on the back of the valentine along with his or her room number. At the end of the event, SAC and Ellicott RHA delivered the valentines to their rooms!

Valentine decorating was just one of the events that SAC planned. Each month, SAC works to provide at least one small event for the Gemstone-Ellicott community. Other events have included Fall Food Olympics, a trip to a Washington Nationals baseball game, and restaurant fundraisers. In addition, SAC hosts a formal at the end of the fall semester. Currently, SAC is working towards planning their first spring semi-formal and “Maryland’s Next Top Gem,” which consists of a series of competitive events to determine the next “Top Gem.” Unlike other events, some proceeds from this event will be donated to Relay for Life, an event that fundraises thousands of dollars for the American Cancer Society. Whether it’s being involved in the planning process or just attending the events, the Gemstone program provides lots of opportunities for leadership and fun! 

-Jessica Lee:  Team RITALIN: Class of 2014