If you’re a freshman, you’ve probably heard so many things about THON. You won’t know what it’s really like until you’re there, but here are some suggestions of things to bring that you may not have thought of.
1. Tennis Balls.
There’s no denying it—your feet are going to hurt a little. After all, you’ll be standing for hours on end. A surprising way to combat this is by bringing a tennis ball! There are more high-tech foot rollers, but this works just as well. Just roll your feet over it and it’s a quick and easy, well-needed massage. You’ll feel much better and ready to go.
2. Extra Footwear.
A change of shoes and socks is important as well. I suggest bringing a pair of flip-flops to air your feet out. Sneakers are good for support, but after standing in them for hours, you’re going to want to change it up. Flip-flops or sandals are good for this. Also, bring a change of socks for when you put your sneakers back on.
3. Reusable Water Bottle.
The biggest thing to bring is a reusable water bottle! It is so important to stay hydrated at THON and a reusable water bottle is key. There are water fountains all over the Bryce Jordan Center, but the lines are pretty long. So, bring a water bottle that’s large enough that you won’t need to keep refilling it. And remember—you have to bring the water bottle EMPTY to THON. You can fill it up when you get there.
4. Portable Phone Charger.
Portable phone chargers are huge as well. The service in the BJC isn’t that great since it is so packed and if you’re trying to send a message it can really drain your battery. Portable phone chargers save the day. But also try and stay off your phone and really take in THON weekend.
5. Baby Wipes or Deodorant.
You could end up being at THON for 24 hours at a time and can get sweaty and gross. Baby wipes and deodorant are a good way to freshen up. Dry shampoo might also be a good idea.
6. Hand Sanitizer.
In the same realm as baby wipes, you might not want to leave your spot to go wash your hands or wait in a bathroom line. Hand sanitizer is a great way to keep you clean and germ-free. Tons of people are cramped in the stands and germs spread fast. You can’t be at THON if you’re sick because of the thousands of kids there with compromised immune systems. Make sure to take care of yourself the week before THON and at the event as well.
Happy THON weekend, collegiettes!