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It is one of the most prestigious articles running in any journal in the United States, according to U.S. News and World Report, and it can get you into law school, too, promise...

Oh, good. The pizza's here.

After two weeks of open houses at various campus organizations, the sales pitches used to woo first-years have become slightly haunting, students say.

During Freshman Week and shopping period, first-years were the subjects of an all-out assault of hospitable smiles, firm handshakes and high-calorie food. The warm, fuzzy feeling each organization tried to leave with prospective members could approach the smothering.

"People here are on the most part very helpful," said Christa M. Franklin '98, a Matthews resident who attended the Crimson's open house on Monday, September 19.

About 100 eager first-years attended the Crimson's open house on Monday. The next day, more than 100 packed the Institute of Politics (IOP), nearly 50 went to the Harvard Independent's open house and about 40 were at radio station WHRB's introductory meeting.

'The free food is effective, definitely.'

David V. Bonfili, head of IOP study groups

Every group but the IOP had multiple open houses, and, at each spot, prospective participants appeared to be getting a practiced, timeworn pitch.

"I think they're worthwhile because they introduce you to the clubs in a relaxed atmosphere, and there's no commitment to sign up," said Mario J. Garcia-Serra '98, who attended the IOP open house on September 20.

But others said the introductory meetings were either completely useless, or just plain annoying.

"I've definitely heard a lot of stuff that has bored me--bureaucratic stuff," said Ethan G. Drogin '98, a Strauss A resident who attended the WHRB meeting and other campus open houses.

"They're not incredibly informative," said Josh Gluck '98, who attended both the Crimson and the IOP meetings.

In the crowded meeting rooms, things could get sticky. All three of the media groups were quick to bring up the sore points of their competitors.