The First-Gen registered student organization and Black Student Union kicked off the semester with a lively Karaoke Night, an event designed to bring the Ferris community together.
Held Jan. 30, at the David Eisler Center Rankin Stage, the event featured a mix of performances, fun and a welcoming atmosphere.
The event brought a positive, high-energy vibe, with between 10 and 25 students singing, cheering on their peers or enjoying donuts and hot chocolate. For many, the night wasn’t just about karaoke, it was about bonding with fellow students and feeling part of a larger community.
For criminal justice senior and First-Gen RSO President Janiayah Moore, the event was all about creating a space where students could feel like they belonged.
“We wanted to create a space where people could just be themselves,” Moore said. “A place where everyone feels welcome and can connect with others.”
In her third year as president, Moore describes the First-Gen RSO as a “home away from home,” highlighting the group’s role in providing support for first-generation students on campus.
The night also served as a reminder that everyone, no matter their background, can find a sense of belonging.
While the event was organized by the First-Gen RSO and Black Student Union, it wasn’t exclusive to members of those groups. It was about creating a space where students from all walks of life could come together, share in the fun and feel connected.
Co-faculty advisor for the First-Gen RSO Emmanuel Ogua emphasized that the night was more than just about singing—it was about building a sense of belonging.
“This is about more than just a fun event,” Ogua said. “It’s about creating community. Ferris isn’t just for one group of students, it’s a place for everyone. All voices should be heard, and we aim to bring people together, share experiences and support each other.”
Even those who weren’t planning to perform found themselves joining in, encouraged by the crowd’s warmth and support. Some took the stage for the first time, empowered by the inclusive environment.
Ogua also spoke about the importance of hosting the event at the David L. Eisler Center, a central, public space that made the event accessible to all students, regardless of their affiliation with the First-Gen RSO or Black Student Union.
“We wanted to create an event that would attract everyone, whether or not they identify as first-gen or part of the BSU,” Ogua said. “The idea was to make it a space for the whole campus to come together, celebrate and have fun.”
One standout performance came from welding engineering technology sophomore Gabriella Buerkel, who sang “Nothing Really Matters” by Jaedynn Latter. Buerkel, who identifies with both the first-gen and Black student communities, said the event was especially meaningful for students who share those identities.
“A lot of Black students at Ferris are also first-gen,” Buerkel said. “Having this kind of community to connect with is so important. It helps students feel supported and gives them a space to belong.”
The welcoming atmosphere allowed attendees to embrace their individuality while also feeling united in the larger Ferris community. Whether students were performing on stage, enjoying the music or bonding over shared experiences, the karaoke night offered a rare opportunity for all to step outside their usual circles and build new connections in a supportive environment.
As the evening drew to a close, the sense of community among attendees was clear. Karaoke Night wasn’t just a fun activity, it was a reminder of the power of coming together, celebrating diversity and creating lasting connections across different groups on campus.