The Pennsylvania State University Paranormal Research Society (PSUPRS, or more commonly known as just PRS) is a student organization, founded September 16th, 2001 by Ryan Buell. Buell, who was only 19-years-old at the time, wanted to create a completely professional paranormal society that was different from any other.
However, the first few meetings proved that Buell had a long way to go before he could achieve those goals.
"A lot of people viewed PRS as just another student club," says Buell. "I had all these ideas about research departments, paperwork, conferences, and most of the members just stared at me with vacant expressions."
PRS had to present and argue before a hearing in order to obtain university status. Already denied in November, PRS tried once again that February.
Says Buell: "I remember, after I presented, they all glanced at each other uncertainly. I then stood up and said, 'look. I know you have no idea what I'm talking about, but that should excite you. You have a genuinely unique organization trying to form here. I can talk to you all night about what we want to do. But just give us the opportunity to show you.' The head of the committee seemed to relax a bit, and the next day we got our acceptance letter."
With that obstacle out of the way, Buell and former member Matthew Ritsko mapped out the future of PRS. Buell created two research departments, Field Investigation & Research department (FIR) and the Parapsychology & Laboratory Research department (PLR). Then, the two decided that members would have to go through rigorous training in order to be accepted into either departments.
Members would have to prove themselves by taking a weekly class that would give them a crash course in paranormal phenomenon, as well as the investigative techniques used in PRS. Trainees shadow on three investigations and then have to write a research paper.
"Right away, the interested in investigating dropped 80%," laughs Buell. "But that means we're sorting through the kids who just want to ghost bust from those who take this seriously and want to help people and make a difference."
PRS' first investigation was conducted in February, case file #2002.02.02F. Also known as "The Damien Haunting," named after the little boy who was being haunted by spirits in his Delaware home. The first major investigation, however, was #2002.03.04F, "Schwab Auditorium Haunting." For years, investigators have been trying to gain access into Penn State's own Schwab Auditorium. However, PRS was granted access and spent the night, followed by curious journalists and a film crew who wanted to learn more about this newly formed society. |
