Compared with Convocation, held earlier in the day, the Student Activities Fair is way more raucous, though similarly ritualistic in its celebration of the first day of classes. Showcasing Bates clubs and groups to first-years, “it’s essentially a contest to be the most enthusiastic,” notes photographer Lincoln Benedict ’09, who photographed these gear-wielding members of the Outing Club on Sept. 5. “And it’s traditional to dress up like the activity you’re promoting.” From left: Bennett Flanders ’10, Ben Linder ’09, Greg O’Donnell ’09, Ben Speyer ’09, and William Loopesko.