Students at the University of Connecticut are almost guaranteed to be aware of SUBOG’s presence on campus. This acronym stands for the ‘Student Union Board of Governors.’ This organization is the largest student-run programming board here at UConn. SUBOG is most known for bringing in performers and speakers in addition to hosting iconic events such as the Food Truck Festival, One Ton Sundae, and the UCONNIC Music Festival. It’s hard to encapsulate or list everything SUBOG has to offer because the list is so broad. On a smaller scale, they host themed events based around holidays or interesting topics to students such as pumpkin carving at Halloween, apple picking trips, or video game tournaments. If you’ve walked through the Student Union and have seen a SUBOG table or event, you know they are constantly giving away unique and valuable items for students! Upcoming events in March are “Husky House,” an EDM-themed event at Huskies Bar and Grill, an arcade night, and free weekly movies at the Student Union Theatre! The programming of all kinds of SUBOG activities is divided between the board, chairs, vice chairs, and seven committees!
Freshman Year
I have been part of SUBOG since my freshman year. As a senior reflecting on my time at UConn, I know this organization has left a mark. Starting school during the pandemic and not knowing anyone were challenges. Since it was extra difficult to meet people and find yourself, I knew I had to join something. I was scrolling on UConntact and discovered SUBOG and its different committees. I took that first step and joined the Comedy Committee’s weekly Webex meeting. It was daunting, but since that leap of faith almost four years ago, I haven’t left the organization. It may seem silly, but joining the meetings gave me a routine. But, it was the group of people that I kept returning back to. My participation and enjoyment may have helped me be awarded Committee Member of the Year, but it was the push by the lovely Comedy Chair, Catherine, to see it through.
New Experiences
With everyone returning back in person, I was excited but nervous to meet people face-to-face. However, the genuineness of the people in the organization didn’t let my nerves go far. After meeting the people I knew from the computer, I joined other committees and learned more. Every year, I am surprised to see new SUBOG events or trips because they are always planning the best student entertainment. Eventually, I would meet my current roommates through the Films Committee which wouldn’t have happened without SUBOG.
Senior Year
In this last year, I became the Digital Entertainment and Films committee’s Marketing Vice Chair. This means I get to help the Outreach committee advertise and market all SUBOG-related events and activities with a focus on my committee. I send out meeting information to members on GroupMe, highlight our events through creative means like brainstorming Instagram captions and TikTok ideas, and more! This has helped improve my leadership skills and other business skills that I can carry with me as I enter a new phase this May. Some of the most memorable experiences I had with SUBOG were meeting John Mulaney and Nick Kroll virtually, World Book Day, and skiing on Powder Ridge Mountain. I can’t wait for the annual Spring Weekend and the end-of-year plans!
To Conclude
I hope this provided a slice of what SUBOG has to offer! Make sure you are following them on social media to hear first about tickets, registration, or pop-up events throughout the day. Both Instagram and TikTok are @subogatuconn with other relevant information listed on the website! Additionally, make sure to stop by SU 307 to hang out at the office. There is an open door policy so everyone is welcome inside and snacks are always stocked in the food cart. Get involved today!