College students will do almost anything for free money. Last week in SF State’s Malcolm X plaza, the challenge was to eat a can of plain unheated spam with hands behind their backs. The fastest eater walked away with $100 in cash from event sponsor Pilipino American Collegiate Endeavor (PACE).

“I thought I was going to choke at first,” said senior John Orille, 21, SF State kinesiology major. Orille, who ate his can of spam in nine bites, won the contest and received the $100 prize.

Although 12 people signed up to participate, 10 were able to compete. The remaining two were disqualified; one because he took a bite before the contest and wanted to add rice to his spam.

The processed pork eating contest helped to promote PACE’s next event on Saturday, October 9, also known as SPAM -- an acronym for Showcasing Pilipino Artists and Musicians.

In its eighth year, the showcase provides a place for talented Pilipino artists and musicians to perform.

“We provide the venue and the crowd,” said Roeul Custodio, 21, PACE Activities Coordinator.

The opportunity for exposure is a key reason for artist and musician showcase. After appearing in SPAM, performers have been recruited to perform at other events, according to Custodio.

It is PACE’s biggest event for the fall semester, according to Zoila Navales, Public Relations Coordinator for the club.

The artists and musicians of SPAM perform Saturday, October 9 at 5 p.m. in Jack Adams Hall. The admission price for this family event is $10 at the door; $8 presale.