The U is known as a commuter campus-students wake up, go to class and then immediately head off for work.

But many organizations on campus are trying to change that attitude. One of the biggest regularly scheduled events is Crimson Nights, which will take place tonight from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.

The night features various activities, ranging from movies to three-on-three basketball to stomps. All U students with a current ID are allowed in with a guest, free of charge.

The event first took place March 7, 2003, and nearly 600 people attended. Organizers had anticipated 300. The second and final Crimson Nights of the Spring Semester took place April 4, and brought in more than 1,400 people.

The campus craving for a night life is fairly obvious from the number of people who turned out.

Many students who attended last school year’s activities said they felt like they were on a college campus for the first time, and organizers hope to continue creating that feeling.

Students are wise to take advantage of a night of free activities with their friends.

Not only does it benefit students with a free night of fun, but it also sends the message that students will show up for campus activities. Crimson Nights also proves that students want to have a college experience, not just attend classes.

With continued success of such programs, more are likely to pop up, which will only strengthen the community feel of the campus, and make the U a more enjoyable experience for students.

While students can, and should have, a rockin’ good time at Crimson Nights, they can orient themselves to campus at Plazafest.

The event, which will take place Saturday from 2 to 5 p.m., features tables for dozens of campus organizations. Students can learn about a multitude of student groups, clubs and organizations they can get involved with.

It’s important for all students-not just freshmen-to check out Plazafest. As the U is a traditional commuter campus, many students don’t know what opportunities are available to them. Plazafest should provide the information students need.

College is a time for more than just learning academics, but also for learning about yourself and others. Activities like Crimson Nights bring together a diverse group of students together, and that interaction is invaluable.

Events such as Plazafest allow students to figure out what they are interested in, which may, in the long run, help them decide such important things as which majors and careers they want to get involved in.

Organizers are doing their best to bring the campus together. Now it’s up to the students to make it work.