For the past two homecoming seasons, many Mississippi State University alumni and current students participated in the Maroon Trek, a campus-wide scavenger hunt hosted by the Alumni Delegates.
This Friday is the third-annual trek, and the committee members said they are thrilled for the new elements added to this year’s scavenger hunt.
Melanie Baker, vice president of member education for Alumni Delegates, said the organization members consider themselves the tradition-keepers on campus.
“As you go through the 10 different stops of the trek, you will find yourself answering questions pertaining to Mississippi State traditions,” Baker said.
Though the details of the challenges cannot be disclosed completely, challenges pertaining to MSU culture and history should be expected.
Though the Alumni Delegates consider themselves lovers of tradition, this year’s scavenger hunt will differ from years past in a few ways.
Firstly, the trek will be even more interactive than previous years, as each “stop” will include an activity requiring a skill set. Anything from designing a floral bouquet to playing tailgate games is fair game.
Secondly, this is the first year where organizations will sponsor challenges. One organization, MSU’s Music Makers, is sponsoring a stop where music trivia will be involved.
Lastly, Baker said the aesthetics of the event are going to be amplified, including larger envelopes to inclose clues so that the clues are “fun to rip open.”
First, second and third place winners can expect prizes this year, including Apple AirPods, Joe Moorhead-signed footballs, Artic Zone merchandise and Strange Brew gift baskets.
Baker noted she considers the event a wonderful time to showcase school pride, and the most spirited team will be named the “True Maroon” team and will also be eligible for prizes. Award-winning or not, all participants will receive a free t-shirt, and admission to the event is also free.
Baker added no matter the outcome, the event will be a great time.
“It’s fun to show your school spirit and have the full experience of being a part of an MSU Bulldog,” Baker said. “That’s why I would do it, to have fun with friends and make some memories that will last a long time.”
Andrew Martin, president of the Alumni Delegates, said he is excited for the event as well.
“It’s going to be a beautiful afternoon and a great start to homecoming weekend–running around MSU’s campus with your buddies,” Martin said. “And no matter what happens, you get a free t-shirt.”
Everyone in the MSU community is encouraged to register; however, there is only room for 50 teams to sign up. The event begins at 2 p.m. Oct. 29. To register and for more details, visit the MSU Alumni Association website.