Raelie Gilbert: Campus Activities Board (CAB)

Funny story: When I was a freshman, I auditioned for freshman follies with my roommate. Our audition was thrown together the day of, totally cringe-worthy, and all-around embarrassing. However, it is one of my most favorite memories of college. We didn’t make it in the show, but I would do it all over again for the laughs that it has given me. Learning to laugh at yourself and just go for things in college is important. There are three main-stage shows that occur at OBU: Biggie, Freshman Follies, and Spring Affair, and they are basically giant talent shows that students get to audition to be in. They are put on by Campus Activities Board, who also watch the auditions. When I had the chance to join Campus Activities Board (CAB), of course I wanted to go for that!
CAB is a group on campus with some of the best people around, if I do say so myself! My personal favorite part of CAB is that it includes people from every class … meaning upper and lower classmen can get to know each other well and develop friendships that go far beyond a campus club. The people in CAB are supportive and encouraging, and it is a beautiful thing to see so many people come together to all do their part and contribute to putting on a great show!
I love that CAB does so many behind-the-scenes things. The week of the show, people are working diligently to get things done and help out in areas that need it. There are all kinds of crews that you can join, some examples being production, props and costumes, set design, etc. The crews each have leaders who are in charge and work to accomplish things efficiently. I love how there are so many people willing to work to allow others to shine in the spotlight. Celebrating and enjoying other’s gifts and talents is nothing short of the best.
We recently put on a show called “Happy Folidays.” This show was so much fun! The directors were Kelton Mims and Matt Sanders, and it was easily one of the best follies I’ve seen. The audience was constantly laughing as the skits were going on, clearly entertained the whole time. With the theme being holidays, they asked for each “crew” to dress up as a specific holiday for the show. This helped to make the show feel different and exciting! I love show nights because you finally get to see all the various parts come together to make a terrific show! It is so fun having the majority of the student body come to the show and hearing their laughter as they enjoy being entertained by people who have put in so much time, thought, and effort into these shows! The emcees that were chosen were naturals up on stage and the acts all amazed the audience with their talents. Stage band, once again, had the crowd dancing in their seats!
Follies was such a success, and I am so thankful I get to be a small part of the group that helps to put on these shows. Rush CAB!
My name is Raelie Gilbert and I am currently a junior at OBU. I am double majoring in early childhood and elementary education. I am passionate about the Lord, and want to spend my life getting to know Him more and serving Him faithfully. I absolutely love people, and college has allowed my extroverted side of me flourish! Meeting new people is one of my favorite things, and random grocery-store kindness is my favorite thing to spread. I love the color yellow, hanging with family and friends, and simply enjoying this beautiful life I’ve been given.