TWIRP, Tunes, Dr. Jack? Decoding everyday Ouachita life #askingforafriend

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Ouachita student waves from football stands

August 13, 2019 - Tiffany Lee

We know you have questions, some that you might be afraid to ask as a freshman, about life in general at Ouachita. So, we’ve put together some common questions and answers to give it to you straight. You'll start-off your first semester with a few nuggets of knowledge to navigate this new world of Ouachita, complete with it's own distinct culture and lingo - with no need to ask for your friends.

How do I find someone to sit with in the caf when there are So. Many. People?

A great thing about Ouachita is that you can always find a friend! No matter how many people are in the Ouachita Commons (or “the caf”), chances are someone is nervous and in the same boat as you. No one is going to tell you that you can’t sit with them. If there’s a group of people you want to get to know, just go up and ask them if you can join them. If you aren’t feeling brave enough to approach a big group, find someone sitting alone. Luckily, Ouachita is full of kind and caring people, so branch out and be brave. You can do this, and you’ll be happy you did later!

What is TWIRP week?

This is a fun week in the fall semester that stands for “the woman is required to pay” (TWIRP for short). Each night of the week, a women’s social club or campus organization hosts a themed event and ladies are encouraged to treat guys to an inexpensive “date night” on campus. It can be a great excuse to spend time with a crush or simply get to know people better as you dress up for the various themes, play silly games and dance the night away with fellow classmates.

Does Ouachita have a dress code?

Looking around, it may seem like shorts, Chacos and oversized t-shirts are a uniform, but Ouachita does not have a dress code. However, “respect for personal appearance” is one of our community values; we definitely promote modesty and dressing appropriately for the occasion. This can help you as you prepare for the working world!

Everyone keeps talking about Tiger Tunes. … What is that?

Tiger Tunes is both a tradition and memory maker here at Ouachita! It is an event put on by the Ouachita Student Foundation (OSF) each fall to raise money for student scholarships. Clubs and organizations come up with a show, complete with theme, lyrics, choreography and costumes. Students then practice for weeks leading up to the performances that are presented to the Ouachita community, alumni, friends and family during Homecoming. Awards are given each night, and an overall winner is announced at the last show on Saturday. Each year, more than $100,000 is raised to invest back into current Ouachita students.

Who is Dr. Jack and why does he have a mutton chop beard?

When you walk in Evans Student Center (or “the stu”), one of the first faces you’ll see is Dr. Jack, for whom Ouachita’s on-campus coffee shop is named. “Dr. Jack” or J.W. Conger was Ouachita’s first president, serving from 1886-1907. He started his presidency when he was only 29 years old and was one of Ouachita’s longest-serving presidents. He was the only president to consistently keep facial hair and, as mutton chops were very stylish in the late 1800s, it’s clear Conger had a style that kept up with the times.

Have other questions about attending college at Ouachita? Read more from our #Askingforafriend Q&A series!