Entertaining the Student Body: An Analysis of University Programming
Presenter: Aaron K. Mistry
Group Members: Stella de Paula, Abigail C. Reddivari, Katelyn Elizabeth Gibbings
Faculty Sponsor: Anurag Sharma
School: UMass Amherst
Research Area: Sociology and Anthropology
Session: Poster Session 5, 3:15 PM - 4:00 PM, Auditorium, A82
ABSTRACT
University Programming Councils are designed to foster student engagement while cultivating a
sense of belonging and campus community through organized events and activities, beginning
from the moment students step foot on campus. However, recent research suggests that
student participation in on campus programming has declined, which raises questions about
whether current offerings align with interests and needs. This study examines the extent to
which university programming council events reflect student preferences and contribute to
engagement. By using a mixed-method approach, the research incorporates survey data that
measures participation patterns with event preferences. Our aim is to explore how factors such
as class year, academic workload, and social priorities influence engagement levels. By
analyzing these dynamics the research provides recommendations for improving campus
programming strategies that will better support student success and retention while improving
overall campus experience
