College is often looked at as a time to experience new things. Exploring new beliefs and religions can be a big step.

The Pagan Spiritual Student Organization opens its door to students hoping to discover a new religion.

Paganism includes Buddhism, Shamanism, Wicca, Norse religion and many others.

“We really encompass the rest of the world,” Vice President Thomas Staskal said.

According to a flyer, PSSO is a safe, fun and tolerant organization allowing students to learn and discuss alternative beliefs. Paganism is an umbrella for any non-monotheistic religion or the three Abrahamic religions.

The diverse organization hopes to bring public awareness of paganistic beliefs and dispel myths about earth-based religions, Staskal said.

Staskal said the organization puts on various presentations and workshops several times each semester.

“We have different presentations from Taoism and Chinese zodiac, to Egyptian pantheon and introductions of Wicca,” Staskal said. “If there are people even just interested in exploring beliefs other than their own or want to see what’s out there, I greatly encourage them to come to one of our meetings.”

PSSO is only at UW-Whitewater, but there are other national pagan organizations.

PSSO has about a dozen members and are always looking for more, Staskal said.

“We are open to anybody with an open mind,” Staskal said. “If you’re curious, if you’ve ever wondered if there’s anything [else] out there, or if you are different, come educate us. We would like to learn about you as much as we hope you would like to learn about us.”

PSSO meetings are held at 9 p.m. on Tuesdays in UC Room 264.

Students interested in or who have questions about PSSO should contact Thomas Staskal at [email protected].