Even though the summer heat was in full force, senior Elexys Ferreira was not going to risk missing out on her last Waffleopolis. That's why she got to Brazos Park on Wednesday nearly three hours before the event kicked off.
"Last year, I was waiting in line for two hours, and when it was my turn there were no more waffles," Ferreira said. "I was devastated. So this year I was like 'I'm gonna come early, I'm gonna get my waffle and it's gonna be delicious.'"
Just like Ferreira, thousands of students, both new and returning, braved the heat to get their hands on a waffle with a scoop of ice cream and, if they wanted, an assortment of toppings ranging from syrups and strawberries to sprinkles and whipped cream. There was also a DJ providing music throughout the night.
"Waffleopolis is a great opportunity to connect with the Maverick community," Ferreira said. "When I was a freshman, I connected with some seniors who gave me advice as I started my academic career."
Waffleopolis, one of the hallmark events that make up the annual Maverick Stampede, is now in its 27th year at UTA. The party's origins trace back to Brazos House, a since-torn-down residence hall where resident assistants would welcome their students with homemade Belgian waffles. The event has transformed over the years, but three things that remain the same are lots of waffles, ice cream and fun.
Alma Rudnickaite, senior director of catering services, said they dished out 3,000 waffles on the night. The event is so huge, she starts preparing for Waffleopolis during the spring semester.
"This event is special because it brings our new and returning students together and has the potential to foster long-lasting friendships," Rudnickaite said.
That was the case for sophomores Aaron Rodriguez and Cristian Lara. They met last year during one of the Maverick Stampede events and decided to go to their first Waffleopolis together. This year, they went together again.
"When we came last year, we made friends, bonded with the community and of course, got a free waffle," Lara said. "We hope to keep doing that for the rest of our time at UTA."
