Jonathan Koeppel, a student musician, jammed out solo on his guitar and vocals to perform popular covers while students enjoy free refreshments. 
The Lion's Roar/Tiffany Nesbit

After the first week of classes, students may need a moment to sit back and readjust to their new and hectic schedules. Campus Activities Board and Dining Services offered students just that as a special treat during Traditions. 

On Wednesday, Aug. 24 from 6-8 p.m., the campus Starbucks hosted a live acoustic jam given by university student Jonathan Koeppel. Located outside of Starbucks, his set consisted of popular covers such as classic oldies, songs by John Mayer, Lionel Richie and Justin Bieber. Starbucks also provided free samples of cookies, brownies, black coffee, ice coffee and coupons to students who attended the event.

Students attending the event were more than satisfied. Katie Taylor, a senior kinesiology major even had a chance to bring her beloved dog to enjoy the music. 

“I absolutely loved the event,” said Taylor. “I got to enjoy free coffee while spending more time with my dog. I think this event was a great idea and a great place to socialize and hang out with friends. The music is wonderful and really brings out a true coffee house feel.”

Other students felt that this event was a great way to relieve stress after a long day of classes.

“I’m really enjoying this event,” said junior music major Claire Putnam. “It is very chill and has a sort of ‘get away from school atmosphere.’  It has a very relaxing atmosphere, especially with everything that’s going on in my life, it’s a nice escape.”

Junior elementary education major Gabrielle Kern also had a blast because of provided discounts, free samples and Koeppel’s live performance.

“I really like this,” said Kern. “All of the complimentary brownies and half off frappes’ have been delicious. I love the music, I have seen him at various venues around Hammond, and I always enjoy watching him. It is good that they held this event for students it’s a great way to start off the semester.”

Senior occupation, safety, health and environment major Brian DeVillier thought it would be a good idea to continue to have these events.

“This is an awesome event, I think they should offer events like this to students weekly to take students minds off of studies, especially during finals week,” said DeVillier. “It’s cool to see a student musician performing. It makes the event more relatable to other students.” 

CAB Director Nick Elliott and marketing coordinator at Aramark Fallon Myers worked together to create this event and hopes to see similar events like this soon. 

“At the moment, we don’t have anymore of these events planned, but since this event has been a success, we hope to schedule some in the near future,” said Myers. “The students seem to have really enjoyed the music and coffee.”