The Student Entertainment Board (SEB) of WSU hosted a lively Speed-Friending event on Aug. 27, giving students a chance to expand their social circles and create meaningful connections.
The event was held in the Compton Union Building (CUB) and welcomed students of all years and experiences to participate. The idea was simple, yet impactful: to provide a welcoming environment where both new and returning Cougs could break the ice, start strong and feel connected to their community.
“I realized a majority of the people who come to our events are freshmen, so I hosted this for people to get to know each other,” said SEB arts director Siju Apejoye.
The event was designed to break down social barriers and provide a welcoming space for participants interested in exploring new connections. Speed-Friending’s format created a fast-paced and exciting environment for students to learn about each other.
The night began with a bingo icebreaker activity for students to fill out as they walked around the room, with questions that encouraged participants to learn more about each other and match the prompts on their sheets. Some slots asked about majors, hometowns and hobbies. The sheets gave participants opportunities to learn fun facts about each other, from hobbies to studies.
Complimentary snacks were provided, such as cookies, cupcakes and sliders, which students were welcome to help themselves to.
Students from all class years and majors attended, creating a diverse atmosphere for engagement. For some, the event was about more than just meeting new friends. Third-year students Samantha and Bethany, who recently transferred to WSU, said they were looking forward to the opportunity to branch out. Bethany shared that she transferred from California State as a third-year student and is excited to have future stories to tell.
“We’re looking to make memories here, and some funny stories,” Samantha said.
They both mentioned that they came to Pullman without knowing anyone.
Other attendees shared similar comments, stating that they found the event through the SEB Instagram account. Multiple students mentioned that they have made many connections unexpectedly by going to events like Speed-Friending, as well as club-hosted meetings. Apejoye said events like Speed-Friending are great ways for students to get to know each other.
“It’s unexpected, but going to random events like this one, I would say I’ve met a lot of people,” said Ifeoluwa Ogabi, a fourth-year student.
Some students say that the start of the semester can often be a hard transitional period for incoming freshmen and returning students, due to the change in lifestyle and routine.
“I haven’t noticed the Washington freeze; there hasn’t been a big difference,” said Bethany. The “Washington freeze” is a term used by people from the Pacific Northwest to describe the struggle of making friends – but it has not affected her experience.
The Student Entertainment Board hosts a variety of events, such as movie nights, festivals and guest speakers. There are over one hundred opportunities for students to attend over the academic year. SEB offers leadership and campus involvement opportunities as well.
Upcoming SEB events include Open Mic Night at 4 p.m. on Thursday in the CUB Reunion and Cougfest 2025 at 5:30 p.m. on Friday at Rogers Field. More information can be found on their Instagram.
