Spring Into Opportunity!

LLP’s Spring Extravaganza Brings Community, Culture, and Career Inspiration

By Da'Jha' Wardlow
LLP Social Media Intern

Preparing for the future doesn’t always happen in a classroom; it can also grow through connection, creativity, and shared experiences. That was exactly the case at the Department of Languages, Literature, and Philosophy’s Spring Extravaganza last Friday. The event brought students together in a lively and welcoming environment designed to inspire personal and professional growth.

Me with Dr. Francesco Masala

Hosted in the Elliot Hall Auditorium, the Spring Extravaganza offered a mix of activities including salsa lessons, philosophy debates, career development opportunities, and student organization involvement. From LLPs “Soul Fire” to the “Nerd Club,” the event created space for students with different interests to come together and explore new ideas while building meaningful connections.

“It’s a great way to meet new people and feel like you’re part of something bigger,” said Spanish instructor and Salsa expert Dr. Francesco Masala. He reflects the overall atmosphere of day one that encouraged curiosity and connection without pressure. The goal of which, he explained, was "to show support, learn new things, and have fun.”

Performer Amanda Perez with
Language Faculty

One of the highlights of the event was the food, which added to the overall welcoming and festive atmosphere. Students were able to enjoy a variety of refreshments while socializing, making it easier to relax, connect, and fully engage in the experience. The presence of food created a more comfortable environment, encouraging students to stay longer and interact with others.

"When people come together for something positive, it makes it easier to connect and support each other,” Masala said. Other program features include a Dungeons and Dragons Campaign, a live music performance from graduating senior Amanda Perez, and a Fashion Society presentation inspired by The Hunger Games.

Dr. Samantha Morgan-Curtis, Dean of the College of Liberal Arts, emphasized the deeper value of the humanities in shaping students’ lives. “If you wanna be human you have to start with humanities,” she said, reinforcing the idea that studying language, literature, and philosophy helps students better understand both themselves and others. Her perspective connected the purpose of the event to a broader mission encouraging empathy, creativity, and critical thinking.

Dr. Shane Gomes guides the D&D crew

Dr. Erik Schmeller, VP for Academic Affairs, also reflected on the welcoming environment, noting how the event allowed students to step outside of their routines and engage with something new. Whether through conversation, games, dance, or debate, the Spring Extravaganza created opportunities for students to grow in ways that extend beyond academics.

Ultimately, the Spring Extravaganza was more than just an event; it was an experience centered on inclusion, exploration, and community. By bringing together students from different backgrounds and interests, the Department of Languages, Literature, and Philosophy created a space where everyone could feel involved and inspired.

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