Demon VIPs are essential student volunteers who help run events throughout the summer and fall semesters, from Freshman Connection to Demon Days. Volunteers In Progress—known for wearing bright orange T-shirts at the events they work—aid in set up, student check-in and clean up at events such as Color Chaos, No Time for a Siesta, We’re Having a Fiesta and Pack the Pantry Bingo.
At Freshman Connection, Demon VIPs work with Freshman Connectors to host a memorable introduction for Northwestern State University’s incoming freshmen. During this time, VIPs assist new students and parents alike by answering questions, guiding them to necessary resources and teaching students how to navigate campus.
Sharye Belcher is a sophomore nursing major who is excited to serve as a Demon VIP for the first time so that she can help incoming freshmen transition smoothly to NSU. “As a freshman, I was very confused. I didn’t know what was happening with financial aid, where things were located and who to ask for help. Now, as a VIP, I can help somebody in the same situation as me and make their life a little bit easier,” Belcher said.
As the fall semester starts, VIPs help students move into their dorms and work to make Demon Days unforgettable. They labor tirelessly to set up events while engaging with students and keeping NSU’s energy high, always finding a way to participate on campus. “VIPs may get overlooked because we do the behind-the-scenes work instead of standing in the front, but being a VIP is very rewarding and I absolutely love every minute of it,” Belcher said.
Over the course of their work, Demon VIPs have the opportunity to form deep connections with students, faculty and staff throughout campus. Atziary Perez is a sophomore social work major who has firsthand experience with the bonds formed through Demon VIP. “Demon VIP has opened my opportunities to do many things for the school and it has made my connections with staff and my fellow VIPs stronger. I have met so many incredible people in this organization that I will forever cherish,” Perez said.
Natalie Mathews is a sophomore early childhood education major and has loved being able to expand her horizons with Demon VIP. “Being a VIP is a great way to get involved and meet new people without necessarily feeling the worry of being the face of everything,” Mathews said. “Before joining Demon VIP, I didn’t really know many people on campus, but through this organization, I was able to grow connections with so many. I was also able to meet a lot of freshmen and now, when I see them on campus and recognize them, I can be a face that they know and can talk to.”
Demon VIPs are truly volunteers in every sense of the word, always striving to improve the college experience for others. “We’re not doing this for any reward other than helping people,” Mathews said. “We’re excited to host great freshman experiences and help events run smoothly for all NSU students.”
