By Christina Nicole

As  a college student back in 2003, Tuesday and Thursday nights meant one thing: party time. But students at Ramapo College of New Jersey in Mahwah, have found an alternative way to have fun amongst friends sans the alcohol. Students have launched “Spit My Soul,” part of the ongoing “After Dark” series, which I can best describe as a night of original hip-hop poetry, spoken-word, slam poetry, improv and comedy acts, an open platform where students can showcase their talents in an open mic format amongst peers.

 I was informed by student organizer s that the “After Dark” series, which was founded by Lambda Theta Phi, presents students with an alternative for fun instead of alcohol-fueled parties that typically occur on Tuesday and Thursday nights, Since its launch, the event has become highly popular on campus , winning social program of the year in 2011. I had the honor of checking out my first “Spit My Soul “on April 3^rd, which was held in the H Wing auditorium at Ramapo (which also happens to be my alma mater).

I was forewarned that this event would draw a substantial crowd. Around 9:00 pm, I was having doubts as I glanced around the auditorium and saw numerous empty chairs. I remembered back when I was Senate President of Ramapo’s SGA and an active member of the Class Council of 07’ and how it was nearly impossible to get students to attend campus -sponsored events. But around 10:15 pm, I realized I was completely wrong as throngs of students began pouring into the auditorium. I noticed at least 150 chairs had now been filled.

Male and female performers took the stage one-by-one, each performer more talented than the next, sharing personal experiences and their perspectives on the world.  After watching a few of these young, talented performers, I quickly realized why this event had become such a hit and had gained the backing of 12 campus organizations that signed on as co-sponsors. To see a preview of one the acts featured during “Spit My Soul,” watch the video below:

I’m not sure why no one had come up with this event concept back when I was at Ramapo, but one thing is for sure,  “Spit My Soul” is a huge success that I’m sure will be around for years to come.

For more information on “Spit My Soul," contact this year’s organizer, Jorge Ruiz, at jruiz1@ramapo.edu.
For more details on this story contact me at christina@greekflix.com.