7 Ways George P. Burdell Pranked Georgia Tech

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In the annals of Georgia Tech history, one name stands out for his mischievous antics and creative pranks: George P. Burdell. This fictional student, created in 1927 as a joke, went on to become an integral part of the university's folklore. Over the years, George P. Burdell's pranks have become legendary, entertaining students, faculty, and alumni alike. Here are 7 ways George P. Burdell pranked Georgia Tech:

The Birth of a Prankster

George P. Burdell was born out of a joke by William Edgar "Ed" Smith, a student at Georgia Tech in 1927. Smith, tired of dealing with bureaucratic red tape, created a fictional student to test the system. He filled out a registration form for George P. Burdell, and to his surprise, the "student" was accepted. From that moment on, George P. Burdell became a campus legend, known for his outrageous pranks and antics.

1. The Registration Ruckus

One of George P. Burdell's earliest pranks involved registering for classes under various aliases. He would sign up for courses using different names, addresses, and even fake social security numbers. This caused chaos in the registrar's office, as they tried to keep track of the numerous registrations. The prank was eventually exposed, but not before George P. Burdell had managed to register for over 30 classes under different identities.

2. The Phantom Student

George P. Burdell's most famous prank involved his presence on campus. Despite being a fictional student, he would often attend classes, participate in discussions, and even take exams. Professors would grade his papers and exams, unaware that the student didn't actually exist. This prank was eventually exposed, but not before George P. Burdell had become a beloved figure on campus.

3. The Fraternity Fiasco

In the 1930s, George P. Burdell joined the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity, but with a twist. He would attend meetings, participate in events, and even hold office, all without actually being a member. The fraternity brothers were oblivious to the fact that their "brother" was a fictional character.

4. The Sports Spectacle

George P. Burdell's love of sports led to one of his most infamous pranks. He would attend football games, sitting in the student section, and even participate in intramural sports. He became known for his " participation" in the 1930 Orange Bowl, where he was listed as a member of the Georgia Tech team.

5. The Alumni Association Antics

In the 1950s, George P. Burdell joined the Georgia Tech Alumni Association, much to the surprise of the organization's members. He would attend meetings, participate in events, and even donate to the association, all while keeping his fictional status a secret.

6. The Yearbook Yarn

In 1930, George P. Burdell was featured in the Georgia Tech yearbook, The Blueprint. His photograph and bio were included, along with those of the other students. The prank was eventually exposed, but not before George P. Burdell had become a part of the university's history.

7. The Legacy Lives On

Today, George P. Burdell's legacy lives on at Georgia Tech. He remains a beloved figure, symbolizing the university's spirit of creativity and mischief. His pranks continue to inspire students, faculty, and alumni, reminding them of the importance of humor and imagination.

We hope you've enjoyed this look at the 7 ways George P. Burdell pranked Georgia Tech. From his registration ruckus to his yearbook yarn, George P. Burdell's antics have become an integral part of the university's folklore. Whether you're a student, faculty member, or alumnus, George P. Burdell's legacy is sure to bring a smile to your face.

Gallery of George P. Burdell's Pranks

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