Guilford is holding a formal dance, and many students are wondering whether or not we should host such a juvenile event. I believe the formal is a great opportunity for everyone to branch out and enjoy themselves beyond the realm of what’s comfortable for them. Those who believe that the formal is going to bring up bad memories of past dances or make them feel immature are missing the point. The formal is meant to give Guilford students yet another chance to crawl out of their shells and blossom.
Much of the problem is that people associate formal dances with junior high and high school students. No one in college wishes to be thrown into that category as it assumes that one is adolescent.
“I think the whole idea is stupid,” said first-year Dee Goodin. “I just got out of high school, why would I want to go to something that was dumb then? It’s even worse that it’s happening in college.”
However, most of the people who I spoke with showed nothing but enthusiasm regarding the event.
“I can’t wait to see everyone . flossin’ it out,” said first-year Bram Crowe-Getty. “I have always had fun at these dances, and having it here at Guilford won’t change that. It might make it better.”
The dance is a chance for students to clean up and dress up, perhaps simulating a professional environment.
The event also gives students the chance to ask a special someone out to the formal who they otherwise might not get a chance to take out for a special evening. If students just want to go with friends it could be a great bonding experience for them. It is also a chance to meet new friends.
Some students are complaining about the cost of the formal and wondering where the money goes. Some of the money pays for refreshments, but the majority of it goes to the Serendipity fund for the spring.
“We try and get as much money for Serendipity so it can be as fun as possible,” said senior and campus activities board member Hawi Hall.
One downside is that this sort of function does have the potential for disappointment and drama, for which there is no insurance. In my opinion, the good outweighs the bad because of the camaraderie that the formal could bring to Guilford, which is often missing due to students’ differing outlooks on life.
I would encourage anyone who is wondering if they should attend the dance to go. On our campus we rarely have something this exciting to be a part of, so instead of sitting around, drinking, or playing video games, I suggest that all of you check it out. You never know the impact that one night can have on your life.
The formal will take place at Gabriel’s Banquet Hall on Nov. 19 from 9 p.m till 1 a.m. A bus will be provided for students who don’t have rides or who are of age and wish to buy drinks at Gabriel’s cash bar.
The theme of this year’s dance is Stairway to Heaven. Tickets are being sold Nov. 2-4, 7-11, and 14-18 in the cafeteria between the hours of 5 and 7 p.m. Admission is $7 for a single ticket and $10 for a couple.