Field Day gives PIBS participants a chance to connect

Oct. 13 proved to be a great day in Ann Arbor — with trees dancing in the breeze and a pleasant 73 degrees with gentle sunlight.

The air of this beautiful day at Palmer Field was filled by the sounds of crashing wood from large Jenga pieces, cheering and laughter of students, staff and faculty all there for the Program in Biomedical Sciences (PIBS) Field Day.

Upon arrival, students were greeted by PIBS and employees from the Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, wrapped sandwiches and cookies from Jimmy John’s, and many activities to connect over.

So why was this field day event held?

“We wanted to provide a day for graduate students of the PIBS 2020 Cohort to gather,” said Scott Barolo, PIBS director. “After a year or so in isolation, this group hasn’t had the chances that the classes before it have had to connect.”

This was indeed the case and demand for such an event was exposed. About one-third of the original cohort (approximately 32 students) appeared throughout the event.

Intense, chess-like games of Connect Four were played throughout the day. Kan Jam brought out the competitiveness (and sweat) of those who played. Attendees also saw the artistic talents of the students who painted rocks and yard pong brought a challenging iteration of a familiar game.

“It was relaxing to get out and see the students and our directors have a good time,” said Michelle Melis, student services representative “Those that showed up were very appreciative.”

Click here to see photos from the event!