Even in a year where we’ve thrown “normal” out the window, we still have (at least one) UNLV tradition to celebrate. The Rebel Homecoming Most Spirited Student competition has become a hallmark of the week-long event. Students rep their best (and often quite creative) Scarlet and Gray to campaign for the award—with the winner receiving a $500 scholarship.

Though virtual, this year’s students will be participating in graphic design, spirit wear, and video activities to showcase what it means to be a Rebel. Here’s a look at this year’s five candidates.

Kelly Chung

Sophomore, public health and biology major from Las Vegas and Shenzhen, China

What makes you proud to be a UNLV student?
College is an experience to learn, grow, and create memories. I am proud to spend my undergraduate years at UNLV, which has an excellent academic environment and supportive community. As a Nevada resident, I am pleased to attend a local university that has great connections to the city I love and that is cost-efficient. 

Why are you interested in becoming this year’s Most Spirited Student?
2020 is a challenging school year, where many classes were transitioned to distance education, people spend less time on campus than in previous school years. Even though the learning experience is altered, I think it is still very important to boost school spirit during Homecoming week. I am proud to be a part of the UNLV community, and I want to express my gratitude by participating in this Most Spirited Student competition. 

Elizabeth General 

First-year dance major from Alamo, CA 

What makes you proud to be a UNLV student?
I love being able to study/major in dance, and being able to explore the world of dance through UNLV. I’m proud to be a UNLV student because I can say that everyone on campus cares about one another. Everyone is so friendly and helpful all the time. I also love seeing all the diversity that we have here at UNLV. I can also say that I am proud to call UNLV my home for the next four years.

Why are you interested in becoming this year’s Most Spirited Student? 
I want to win most spirited student because I am trying to get involved with UNLV as much as I can. Unfortunately, this year has been very hectic and different, so we can’t have a normal homecoming. But, I’m hoping I can try to make this the best experience for everyone. I also want to win, because this is my first homecoming at UNLV, and it would be an amazing and very memorable experience to win most spirited student my first year!

Alexis James

Sophomore psychology major from Brentwood, CA

Favorite UNLV memory?
My favorite memory from my time at UNLV is from the homecoming parade and carnival. It was such a fun experience I got to attend with all my best friends. The environment was so positive and to see the community participation was inspiring. 

What makes you proud to be a UNLV student? 
The environment I am surrounded by and the endless opportunity I have received in the short time I have been a college student. I know I am making my parents proud and it is all thanks to UNLV. 

Ruby Valencia

Junior, political science major from Las Vegas

Favorite UNLV tradition?
My favorite UNLV tradition is Premier UNLV because it’s an absolute blast every year! It really kicks off the UNLV spirit. 

How do you show school spirit?
I show my school spirit by repping my UNLV merch everywhere I go! The store, the gym, anywhere! 

Gabbie DeLong

Senior psychology major from West Virginia 

Favorite UNLV memory?
My favorite memory at UNLV is when we had our last basketball game against Reno. I had such an amazing time with my friends cheering on our Running Rebels. Even though we lost that game, we all agreed that it was well played and it was great showing our school spirit!

Why are you interested in becoming this year’s Most Spirited Student? 
I would love to win the Most Spirited Student award because I love to show my UNLV pride and give back to my community. I’d love to highlight what Homecoming is all about and what it means to be different, daring, and diverse.