If you can't make it to Coachella this year, 'COMMchella' provides free alternative

With the warmer weather, students are eager to emerge from hibernation and appreciate the beauty of Rutgers' campuses in spring. What better than to kick off the last stretch of the spring semester than with a free music festival?

This past Tuesday, the Department of Communication in the School of Communication and Information at Rutgers—New Brunswick planned to throw a festival promoting its second annual "#BeCOMM" social media campaign. The event has since been postponed to next Tuesday, due to the ongoing faculty strike.

Cleverly titled "COMMchella," the event's primary goal is to promote the communication major to students who are undeclared or those who have just transferred and are curious about the program.

Marya Doerfel, a professor and chair of the Department of Communication, said the event "showcases how (Rutgers) students turn theories about communication into interactive, engaging, informative and fun events for our community."

The event will feature graduates from the School of Communication and Information participating in "interactive career conversations." There will also be resume writing clinics and a photographer offering free professional headshots.

One of the School of Communication and Information alums involved in the event is David Pangilinan, who now works at Paramount and credits his education to his current career.

"(It's) a testament to the power of being a communication major at Rutgers University. It extends well beyond your days as a student and throughout your career," he said.

Though the event is sponsored and run by the School of Communication and Information, any Rutgers student is encouraged to attend. And there's plenty to do besides career and major-related activities.

"COMMchella" also plans to host a music lineup with headliners like the Ocean Avenue Stompers, a band from Asbury Park, and student bands comprised of fellow Rutgers students.

Besides free tunes, there's also set to be a DJ, a sketch artist, pop-up shops, free pizza provided by Krispy Pizza and free "#BeCOMM" merch, which is enough motivation to bring out hoards of college students. Not to mention, Rutgers' very own mascot, Sir Henry, will likely be making a special appearance.

The event is set to happen next Tuesday from noon to 4 p.m. at The Yard @ College Avenue. You can track the "#BeCOMM" campaign and the music festival by following @ru_becomm on TikTok, Twitter and Instagram. Should the event be further postponed, any announcements would be made on these platforms.

Based on the music lineup and fun activities, I am looking forward to attending the event, despite having never even taken classes in the Department of Communication.