Students, Faculty Show BSU Pride at Homecoming Pep Rally

By Ashonda Bethea-Ruth

Bowie State University's faculty and students gathered to participate in the annual homecoming pep rally on Oct. 15 outside of the J. Alexander Wiseman Center,

This year's homecoming was LIVE --- legacy, intensity, vision, and excellence --- where everything is "all the way turned up."

Outside of the Wiseman Center, students gathered around the temporary bleachers, to watch the show. BSU's Symphony of Soul marching band was the first to gather outside. Music was played before the process of the football team commenced.

When the pep rally began, the DJ had the task of announcing each football player. Once their name was called, they exited the Wiseman outside, walking between two lines of pom-pom shaking cheerleaders and balloons.

Some football players walked out calm and collected. While other players teamed up to give each other secret handshakes and dances. The crowd cheered each player through along with the cheerleaders.

Not too long after the names were called of the players, it began to drizzle, slowing down the procession of the event. But many students stayed out to watch the rest of the show. The BSU mascot also stayed and walked around in the crowed, making many laugh.

There was a short trivia portion to the pep rally, where questions were asked about the BSU football team. The winners received Bowie paraphernalia.

The BSU cheerleaders, Golden Girls, did Bowie cheers and chants, getting the crowd involved in some.

The marching band also played, making the front of the Wiseman appear more like a halftime show.

"I wanted a little more bang," said Markita West, a graduating senior psychology major, of the entire homecoming week. "But it was satisfying overall."

About 70 students attended the pep rally, many of whom were seniors.

First semester freshman Carlisha Smith said she wished homecoming were more organized. "I had more fun at my high school pep rally."

Though she wasn't thrilled with the pep rally, she was extremely excited about the next day's football game. "I can't wait!"