As some SIUC students prepare for one of the biggest street parties in existence, Mardi Gras, others are concerned about their studies rather than the party. Mardi Gras begins every year on Jan. 12 or what some call, 12th night. Mardi Gras lasts for 40 days, not counting Sundays.

Mardi Gras will come to an end on Fat Tuesday (Feb. 20), traditionally the day before Ash Wednesday. Some SIUC students will skip classes and homework to make the nine-hour journey this weekend just for the sake of partying.

Vince Prato, a senior in physical education from Homewood, said that if he does not jump on the Mardi Gras bandwagon now, he may never have the chance to go again.

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I’ve never been to Mardi Gras before, so I guess I’m a virgin at this kind of thing, Prato said. I’m afraid if I don’t do the college road trip to New Orleans, I may never get the chance again. What am I supposed to do, go with my wife in 20 years?

Andy McPeak, an undecided freshman from Centralia, said his studies are preventing him from enjoying the New Orleans experience.

I have to get started with my life, McPeak said. I have too much homework to do just to drive 12 hours and waddle around in knee-high piss.

The main objective at Mardi Gras is to accumulate as many beads as one may handle. People will do just about anything to obtain these beads, ranging from flashing breasts and genitals to doing naked cartwheels and jumping jacks. The bigger the beads, the higher the price is to get them.

Patrizia Iaderosa, a senior in English from Steger, said that she will bring some of her past experiences and beads from the last three years.

I’ve been there, done that and bought a t-shirt, Iaderosa said. I’m just going this year because I don’t have anything better to do with my time this weekend. I’ll just go and get lit, maybe show a little flesh and collect tons of beads. The more beads, the better.

The first time is going to be the best because of the surprise factor, Prato said.

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I’m looking forward to the experience, he said. This is my last year of college, and I’m going out with a blast! Mardi Gras, spring break and the All Fools Tournament (rugby) I’m doing it all.

Multiple visits to Mardi Gras are good for letting loose but sometimes leave significant others out in the cold, Iaderosa said.

The first time I went was the best, Iaderosa said. I’m still looking to have a great time, but my boyfriend almost held me back from going. So my mind will be on him most of the time. Yeah, right!

McPeak does have aspirations to go to the biggest party in the United States one day but fails to see the wisdom in it now.

What is the point of wasting your college education and time on a street party? McPeak said. I just don’t understand how people can blow off a very expensive college education for a $100 dirty, stinky weekend. Why not wait until you graduate, make some money and do it with style?

For those preparing to go and do not have a place to stay except for their vehicles basically should prepare for the worst.

n Find a reasonable 24-hour parking lot for safety reasons.

n Bring plenty of water and juice to avoid dehydration and over-intoxication.

n Do not forget toothpaste and brush for hygiene purposes.

n Peanut butter and jelly works well for food.

n There is no need for blankets and pillow because you won’t sleep, but bring them just in case you get cold while passing out or for the trip home.

n Watch the Weather Channel and dress accordingly; it may get hot during the day and rather brisk at night

n Stick with your group. Try very hard not to get lost New Orleans is not exactly the safest place to be alone.

n Chant S-I-U every chance you get to express school spirit because it might help you find your lost mates, or get you a ride home.