Off-Campus Students Find Thriving Community Through Game-Day Tailgating

While policies change, the experience still pushes to connect students of all backgrounds.

The change in how football is running brings about changes in the tailgate experience, especially home game commuter tailgates. Not only have the numbers for game attendance decreased, but tailgate participation has also declined. 

The commuter tailgates require masks and social distancing while limiting attendance in the area. Originally, the tailgate required colored wristbands that corresponded with one-hour time slots. This was replaced after the first tailgate due to lack of attendance. The numbers project the tailgates averaging 200 students for the events.

The commuter tailgate experience remains the same, offering multiple free options for students. Chick-fil-A sandwiches, T-shirts, ice cream and hot chocolate are provided as well as games for students.

Andrew Bailey, an associate director of student life, explains the reasoning behind everything they offer to students.

“We want to offer items that will bring commuter students to the tailgates,” Bailey said. “The idea is to emulate a carnival-type atmosphere of sorts.”

These decisions do not come without consulting the students prior. Gretchen Cline, a fellow associate director of student life, shares how the tailgates are crafted each year.

“Our tailgates will continue to improve as we consider what our commuting students’ needs are each semester,” Cline said. “We survey our students each semester, so we have a broader picture of what their preferences are for tailgates and we base our decisions on this.”

One aspect that helps connect students is how they can get involved by helping to serve fellow students at the tailgate. Both student workers and CSER volunteers are able to help and connect with the community that attends.

Megan Goin signed up to help serve through CSER. One of her favorite things about the tailgate is the free food, but she shared it is a great way to connect with others and encourage students to attend.

“Students should come because of the free food, fellowship and fresh air,”
Goin said.  

Despite the changes with tailgates this year, Cline still believes in the importance of commuters attending the event.

“Commuter students at most universities typically have higher withdrawal rates, and our office helps provide ways for off-campus students to connect with campus as frequently as possible through community events and resources such as our tailgates,” she said.

Cline further explained that the goal with commuter tailgates is to not only continue a fun football tradition, but to provide lasting experiences for those who attend.

“Tailgating is a college tradition where fun is the only thing on the agenda, and we do it in a way that honors the Liberty University tradition,” Cline said. “Having an atmosphere where off-campus students can take time out to relax and connect with each other is essential to a holistic college experience. Supportive community and a sense of belonging are proven factors in the retention of commuting students.”

Stephanie Haydon is a News Reporter. Follow her on Twitter at @Steph_Annice.

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