SUNY Oswego’s newest student-run organization, the Content Creation Club, is making waves in the campus community with their introductory “Pop the Balloon” event. 

Held the day after Valentine’s Day in one of Hewitt Hall’s freshly renovated classrooms, the organizers called all singles to participate in a dating game based off of the viral YouTube show hosted by Arlette Amuli. 

Participants were each handed a colorful balloon and were told to stand on opposite sides of the room based on gender or romantic preference. Meanwhile an excited audience streamed in through the doors, filling the available seats until eventually some groups came in and found themselves sitting on the floor, chatting with their friends and waiting for the show to begin. 

The hosts began the event with a slideshow presentation explaining the rules of the game and going over media consent requirements, then they showed a short preview of one of Amuli’s past videos to illustrate an example of what they were working hard to create. 

The club secretary, SUNY Oswego student Ana Campoverde, emphasized that at their event they expected respect and kindness from all participants and audience members. This statement appeared to put attendees at ease as the viral show was known to feature rude interactions and hurtful moments for views and clicks, but it was clear that this was not meant to be a part of the group’s agenda for the day.

The first female contestant was led down a line of potential suitors, where introductions were made with a small microphone clipped to a red rose. Soon after, a balloon was popped. It appeared as though one of the suitors was a freshman and this was too young for the contestant. 

The enthusiasm of the audience was palpable as they observed the following developments unfold. President of the newfound club, SUNY Oswego student Jovani Robledo, livestreamed the function on his YouTube channel which carried consistent viewers and commentators throughout the stream. 

Halfway through the members called for a five-minute break where they paused to ask the audience for their input on the questions being asked to the contestants and if there was anything they would like to see changed or adjusted. Many spoke up with their personal preferences, some wishing to place bets on how the rounds would turn out, others called for more engaging lines of questioning. 

The latter request was fulfilled and the second-half contained more incendiary questions related to infidelity and financial expectations. At the conclusion of the event members of the club expressed their appreciation for the substantial participation turnout and their plans for hosting future games and social media workshops for the student body to enjoy. 

E-board members said they “liked the courage it took for people to participate,” and a separate audience member expressed her pleasure at “how messy it got,” which speaks to the entertainment value of this showing. 

Ambitious future event plans coupled with the club members’ determination gives the impression that this group is here to stay. Their club meetings fall on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 4p.m. in Hewitt 102.