Jackson State students participate in speed dating event

Zahriah Balentine

Staff Writer

Putting yourself out there to date can be pretty tough for many people. On Friday, Feb. 7., from 6 – 8 p.m. the National Society of Community Scholars (NSCS) and Thee 21 Savages made it easy for students to try it out for themselves.

At the start of the evening, each female and male student sat at a table for two with sparkling cider and chocolates at their side. Students were able to converse based off a convenient questionnaire sheet to help guide them towards getting to know each other and to possibly create a relationship or friendship.

Speed dating was set within 3-minute increments. After the time passed, the men would rotate while the women stay in the same seat, in some instances the women would rotate, and the men stay seated.

Chrystalyn Branch, a junior biology major from Little Rock, Ark., and president of the National Society of Community Scholars explained the overall event and the questioner sheet.

“Since it’s around Valentine’s Day we thought that it would be really fun to have something that was lighthearted. Our eval sheets are very friendly and confidential so we thought it would’ve been something really nice for people who may not have a valentine. The ultimate goal of this event is for everyone to just have fun,” Branch explained.

She continued, “We have questions such as what are your goals and aspirations, what’s your favorite color, are you a sweet or salty type of person. Basically, personality questions,” said Branch.

Many students like Jalon Reese, a freshmen recreation major from Hayshere, Miss., came to the event not knowing what to expect but overall end up having a great time.

“At first, I didn’t want to come because I’m kind of an introvert, but I knew wouldn’t hurt to go out and talk to people and see what they like. I actually end up enjoying it. I had a very good experience and I actually met some new people that’s similar to me. I also got to know people that’s different for me as well so overall it was a really exciting experience,” said Reese.

Ruby Pollock, a junior political science major from Puckett, Miss., was also very pleased with the turn out and speed dating for the first time.

“I’ve never been to anything like this before. I have only seen stuff like this on television so to actually experience something like this in person is so real,” said Pollock.

She continued, “It was a little exciting. I love the decorations they really went all out with the decorations and it was really beautiful. You can tell it was organized well and put together. I loved the sparkling cider and the candles. Overall, it was a really fun event for us to really to get to know each other,” said Pollock.

Jacori Daniels, a junior biology major from Hazelhurst Miss., and junior class president mentioned how the speed dating event is helpful for students.

“It’s very beneficial because it gives students outside of their comfort zones. Some students are afraid to approach other students on the plaza, the student center or wherever it may be, so this event gives students a comfortable space that’s small and convenient. No one’s really pressuring you, but at the same time you get to meet new people and ask questions that you may not normally get to ask,” said Daniels

For students who missed the speed dating event, Mister JSU is hosting another speed dating event on Feb. 13. in Alexander Hall at 7:15 p.m.