Attention Penn Staters and fellow THON lovers: Canning season is finally upon us. If you haven’t been canning before, prepare for new friends, fun, and beautiful fall weather. Honestly, canning is probably one of the best things about fall (just ahead of the ever-so-wonderful pumpkin spice latte). However, whether you are a first-timer or a canning veteran, here are a few ways to increase your canning total.

Step 1. Buy everything Penn State. And wear it proud.

Seriously, everything. You need to be Penn State in everything you (we) are. McLanahan’s sells everything and I guarantee if you need it, it’s there. Socks, hats, wigs, shoes, blue and white beads, feather boas, and tutus just to name a few. Also, this is a good way to market yourself. If you wear as much Penn State stuff as you can, people will better associate THON with Penn State and understand what they are donating to. Leave your NCAA “Pissed Off” shirt at home, though.

Step 2. Understand the rules.

The LAST thing you want is to find out you broke a canning rule. Going to a canning workshop will ensure that you know these rules! THON 2014 Rules and Regulations Overall Captain Janine Patton says that “safe canning is the easiest way to make sure that your organization is getting full credit for all of their efforts each weekend.” You don’t want to be “that guy” that cans in the middle of the street. People will also think you are homeless. Bottom line, can safely and you’ll retain more money for your organization.

Step 3. Entice people to donate.

Yes, it’s okay to be a little annoying about your love for THON. This is where being a little weird can help you. Be goofy, have fun, and don’t be afraid to break out your craziest hat or tutu! Being entertaining is a way for people to want to donate to you. Not only that, but they’ll remember you! You only have about ten seconds to prove to someone that you are worthy of their donation, so put on your best show. “Have some key one liners about THON in case someone asks you about it,” says Patton. This is a great tip, because people don’t always know what THON is, or they don’t understand the charity it helps. It’s your job to make sure they do!

Step 4. Be educated.

THON isn’t just about being with your friends and raising money on street corners. It’s about raising awareness for childhood cancer. Before you go canning, take a second and look over the statistics on pediatric cancer so in case anyone asks, or if anyone is reluctant to donate, you have an arsenal of facts. Remember that we dance for the kids. Just keep that in the back of your mind, and you’ll have a successful weekend.