The University Student Union (USU) offered first-time and returning students a chance to explore their resources and information through a safari-themed event called Matafest at Plaza del Sol. The event featured free food, live entertainment and raffles.

Among the resources available to students at the USU are the Veteran Resource Center, which assists CSUN students as they transition from military service to college; the Student Recreation Center, the campus’ facility for exercise and leisure activities; and the Pride Center, which supports lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) and questioning students, faculty and staff.

Nada Elauri, event lead, said the purpose of Matafest was to show students how accessible the USU’s resources are.

“The goal of Matafest is to share our resources with students, to help them achieve their academic and personal goals,” she said.

Freshman Elora Barsiasa saw a flyer about Matafest while walking through campus.

“I visited nine booths, including the Veteran Resource Center, the Student Recreation Center and the Oasis Wellness Center booth,” Barsiasa said. “Oasis was my favorite because it shows that CSUN really cares about students and their health and how they feel.”

For more information about resources available through the USU, please visit http://www.csun.edu/usu.

matafest, PRIDE Center, USU, Veterans Resource Center