If there were ever a time for one to utilize random facts on history, literature and pop culture, now would be the time because Phi Kappa Phi’s annual Homecoming Quiz Bowl is approaching. 

The Quiz Bowl is essentially a game that requires its contestants, who are in groups of four, to quickly answer questions on a variety of topics. 

Eight groups compete in the competition each year, four student groups and four faculty groups. The competition separates the student and faculty groups, drawing out the best group of each. Then comes the fun part. In the last round, a student group and a faculty group will go head to head for the win. 

Participating professors that relentlessly make their students squirm better watch out, because the tables may just turn. 

“The comaraderie fostered by the competition, particularly students seeing their professors also struggling for answers, brings the groups together in good-natured fun,” said Officer of Phi Kappa Phi Dr. Joan Faust. 

This game of “general knowledge and quick recall” is in its 14th year. It began when Faust received a Promotion of Excellence grant from Phi Kappa Phi’s national office. The event continues as a means to drive Phi Kappa Phi’s overall objective of promoting excellence within Southeastern’s campus.

The first place winners of the Homecoming Quiz Bowl receives a grand prize of $100 for each member while second place winners are awarded $50 per person.   

Entry into the competition is on a first come, first serve basis. Only the first four groups of faculty members and the first four student groups to enroll and pay the 25 dollar application fee will be allowed to play. 

There are still spots available for teams to enroll.

As for the teams already grooming themselves for this trivia quiz, there is no concrete method to prepare for the competition besides attending the practice session. 

“These questions come from such a variety of areas-from sports to literature to history to popular culture-that no one can really ‘study’ for them,” said Faust. 

Because Southeastern is approaching its 90th birthday, the Quiz Bowl will pay special attention to campus history questions.  

In case the Quiz Bowl does not sound fun enough, communication professor Dr. Joseph Burns will be commentating the competition; the event will be a hoot for those competing and watching. 

“My personal favorite aspect is seeing the laughter and excitement experienced both by those competing and those observing,” said Faust. 

All Southeastern students, staff, faculty and alumni can participate. 

Deadline to register is Wednesday, October 7 at 4 p.m. 

The practice session, which is highly suggested for participating groups, will be October 12 from 2 to 3 p.m. in the Student Union Ballroom A. 

The actual Quiz Bowl Tournament will be held Tuesday, October 13 from 2 to 5:30 p.m in the same location as the practice session. 

Those interested in participating should contact Dr. Joan Faust via email at [email protected].