The Veterans Resource Center kicked off the spring semester by welcoming students with activities and information about services available to veterans on and off campus.

Students walked to tables obtaining information and handouts from representatives of various veterans resources on-campus and off-campus. Some of the booths present were the Veterans Affairs Hospital, CSUN Career Center, and other veteran resources on campus.

The VRC provided students snacks, crafts, raffles, and activities in front of the SRC for their Open House, called Spring Kick-off.

Senior kinesiology major Juan Rodriguez said he came to the open house with a friend for free gear and giveaways.

A veteran himself, Rodriguez said it was important for the school to create an event for the veterans. “It is cool to see where the veterans are at,” he said.

Laura Hurtado, a peer mentor at the VRC and a senior public health promotion major, said it is important for veterans to experience various aspects of CSUN.

“Especially coming from a military background, it is good for veterans to feel a part of student life. “ Hurtado said.

Students participated by creating para-bracelets, shooting hoops, and posing for pictures in the photo booth.

A para-bracelet is a military bracelet created by braiding an 8 foot rope. The bracelets are used by the military in survival situations, when a rope may be necessary.

Students created the fun and easy para-bracelets in all types of neon colors including: bright pink, neon green, black, and camo-green.

The Mardi-Gras themed Photo-Booth featured beads, masks, and hats as props for students to take pictures with friends.=

Students could also compete in an arcade-style basketball shooting game. The winner would attempt to make the most shots possible in 30 seconds.

Lucia Sandoval, a senior majoring in biology, said the event was fun and provided helpful information. She is not a military veteran, but said information never hurts.

”I can spread the info to veterans I know,” Sandoval said.