Bakersfield College held a virtual Spring Fling week, April 13 to April 17, to bring some virtual enjoyment to students and staff during these uncertain times.  

BC originally had an on-campus Spring Fling week scheduled, but due to the growing pandemic, the Bakersfield College Student Government Association (BCSGA) developed a week of virtual events. The events varied from zoom calls with distinguished speakers to gaming tournaments.  

“The transition of Spring Fling going virtually was definitely challenging. In order to boost the student body with their morale during this difficult time, BCSGA and Office of Student Life worked tirelessly on what sort of events all students would be able to participate in, what required the least amount of resources, platforms that are easily and highly accessible to all, and what is circulating as popular today,” BCSGA Director of Student Activities, Perla Villegas said.  

Although all BC campuses are closed, the BCSGA members still wanted to connect with each student. During this week of activities, students were encouraged to join as a small refreshment from everything going on around them.  

“I feel that this was a good idea, but it may be hard to get into it as students would if it were an on-campus event,” BC student Isabella Polanco said. “I believe it could’ve been a good distraction, just so everyone or anyone who would want to participate can have something on their mind that isn’t COVID-19.”  

Some of the virtual activities included an escape room, a Netflix streaming party, a Super Smash Bros. tournament, and comedian Brent Pella. Each event gave students the opportunity to interact with peers of the same interest. Every event had over 100 participants that either joined in or simply watched.  

“I believe that students have benefited with the re-establishment of connection with fellow students and staff in our events and platforms. I know that I am greatly enjoying hearing, seeing, and playing with fellow students whether it be on discord, Facebook, or on some of our gaming events like Super Smash Bros Ultimate and League of Legends,” Villegas said.