THON 2025 is already very much underway. Applications to be a THON captain or committee member have closed and committees have been formed. For first-time THON participants, it can be an intimidating time to navigate.
There are so many new people to meet and new social interactions that might be unfamiliar to you. You may find yourself feeling awkward or shy towards these new people, and that’s totally normal. However, you’ll find that these strangers will soon become your friends.
Make an Effort
THON can be such a great experience for everyone involved. Like many experiences, you get out what you put into it. The best way to enjoy the experience is to make an effort and be involved. A THON committee is a special kind of group. You will learn and grow with them every week until February, so being active, attentive and positive during committee meetings can make them feel more like a hangout with your friends rather than just another meeting.
However, that is the bare minimum of being part of a THON committee. Attending THON sanctioned events and other committee hangouts may be even more important than the meetings are. It is at these events where you truly get to connect with these new people and build comradery among the committee. Not only that, but they are a fun way to unwind and enjoy an evening.
Chosen For a Reason
Every THON volunteer was chosen for a reason. Each person brings something unique to the table for whichever organization they are assigned to, including you. In the spirit of this, it’s important to remember to be yourself. You were chosen to be a part of THON because you are you.
Shyness and awkwardness are always present when meeting new people. This doesn’t go away in THON, but when first getting to know your committee, being your authentic self is the best thing you can do. Not only does it allow the other member to get to know you, but it also helps to break down the initial wall of awkwardness.
You Are a Person First
College is a crazy time for students and things don’t always go as planned. Adding THON as a commitment on top of everything else can be a lot. You are expected to attend the weekly meetings and other mandatory events. However, you are a person first, and if you can’t make one of the commitments it’s not the end of the world.
It’s important to make sure that you put yourself first. Being part of a THON committee should not be a stressful task. If something does come up, be sure to communicate openly with your captain or committee and they can help you out.
The THON Experience
THON is widely celebrated for all the good things it can do for the families and children involved, but not much is talked about all of the good things it can do for the people behind the scenes. The students who volunteer not only get to help the THON mission, but they also gain new friends and have new adventures along the way.
More than 16,500 students volunteer for THON every year, according to thon.org. Students get involved by raising money to be an independent dancer, volunteering for an organization, or volunteering for a committee. All of these opportunities work in unison to ensure a smooth and fun weekend in February.
THON is a one of a kind experience for everyone involved. Witnessing the smiles from the children and the families during the weekend is nothing short of amazing. It’s an adventure that you will remember for a long time, so its important to make the most out of it.
Be involved, be positive and go make a difference. But while you’re at it, go have some fun as well.
If there is any more advice for THON participants, let us know @VALLEYmag on X and all other social media platforms!
