Throughout University Center Tuesday more than 100 vendors participated in educating students on health care and resources available both on and off campus. Students got free food and prizes, and played games as they received health tips at the Fun in the Sun Health Fair.
In the UC Bluebonnet Ballroom, vendors distributed discount coupons to encourage students to use their services, such as health screenings, yoga classes and restaurants.
Business management senior Matt Kockos said he didn’t expect so much interaction at a health fair and collected many coupons.
“The free and introductory coupons are a great way to encourage students to take care of their health,” Kockos said.
At a makeshift salon, the Ogle School gave free haircuts and painted nails as part of the health fair in the UC Palo Duro Lounge.
Undeclared freshman Amanda Castleman said she finally decided to get a hair cut and her nails done.
“I had been meaning to get a hair cut, but I was low on money. So, a free hair cut is too good to be true,” Castleman said.
The Recovery Resource Council, an information booth participant, had an innovative way of informing students about the hazards of active and passive smoking by capturing the smell of smoke in metal tins.
Nursing sophomore Katheryn Nehez was required to participate for her nursing class and said people from all different health fields come to the fair.
She said she used the day to learn about different job opportunities available in the nursing field. They give excellent advice on how to get a job, Nehez said.
The American Heart Association had a booth where participants would spin a wheel and answer heart-health related questions for prizes.
Benzi George, American Heart Association health equity regional director, said the association has a stall at the health fair every year.
“Coming to health fair is like a tradition,” George said. “It is good to see it grow.”
Nursing sophomore Helena Agoes walked into the health fair during her lunch hour.
“The vendors at the health fair make people aware of simple things, such as applying more sun lotion while having ‘fun in the sun,’” Agoes said.
Spanish senior Erica Blue said the health fair involves students in activities rather than just providing information, but she originally came for one thing.
“I’m here for the prizes,” she said.
