7 Tips to Make it Through OttoTHON
We all know that ‘Cuse students love to stay up into the wee hours of the morning pondering life’s big questions and working their way through the Iliad. Next Saturday, February 28, however, 960 of these students will be taking a break from their usual Friday night activities to participate in SU’s first ever dance marathon. The Ottothon Dance Marathon is a fundraiser to support sick children at the Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital, which is a member of the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. The event’s goal is to raise $105,000, and every single dollar will go directly to nearby Upstate Golisano Children's Hospital. So in preparation, here's a list of things you should know.
1. Bring identification. You’ll need your ID to check into the event, and in case you leave the event, you’ll need it to get back into your building. But that won’t happen because you’re going to stick it out until the end. #FTK, amirite?
2. Pack a bag. It’s going to be a looong night, so you’ll want to prepare yourself. Make sure you have your phone charger (you’ll need it for all the Snapchats and Instagram posts), plus toothbrush and toothpaste to keep your breath fresh for the night and wee hours of the morning. For those of you who are really going to really get into it, a change of clothes might be necessary.
3. Bring $$$. There's going to be a regular auction as well as a date auction so you’ll want to bring at least a of couple dollars. For all of you that celebrated this Valentine’s Day with multiple rounds of Insomnia, it might be a good idea to get in on the date auction action. You’ll be helping the kids while ensuring that your future holds more human interaction and less cookies. There will also be raffle tickets and what is sure to be some sick merchandise.
4. Dress appropriately. And by this we mean take a cue from all the biddies on sorority bid day and whip out those neon tutus and glitter face paint. Nothing will get those feet a-tappin like the perfect tutu and sweatband combo. Rumor also has it there will be a zumba instructor, so consider a sombrero if you're at a loss in the fashion department.
5. Water, water, water. The thirst will most definitely be real (in more ways than one) so make sure you bring a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the night. There will be refreshments there but it’s best that you bring your own just in case.
6. Eat well. Though a Snickers bar might be enough to get you through that 9 a.m. class, you’re going to need some real food to fuel you for Ottothon. Eat balanced meals (all the food groups) and snack throughout the day to keep up your metabolism. Here’s your perfect excuse to carb load without feeling judged (Hey, Regina George).
7. ENERGY! This is the first ever dance marathon at SU, and to be a part of the inaugural event is HUGE. However, there is no denying that 12 hours is a long ass time. A few days before the event ponder what really gets you going and then stock the fuck up. There is no shame in showing up with a Keurig and/or a 12-pack of Rockstars.
Art by Shawna Rabbas