On account of the pandemic, many of the events that once brought the Guilford community together were no longer possible. However, as time goes on, they are becoming possible once again. While the virus is still present, in-person events are being held more often. This is why for the first time since 2019, Serendipity week has made a comeback. 

While this year’s Serendipity may have looked a bit different from previous years, it still brought Guilford’s community together in a variety of events held throughout the campus. However, make sure not to confuse Serendipity week with Week of Wellness. Despite them both holding events on the campus at the same time, they’re completely different things. 

The events that were brought forth by Serendipity this year offered people a great chance to meet new people. Normally, students would be able to meet new people in their in-person classes. However, seeing that there are limited face-to-face classes, that simply isn’t possible this school year. For those who were forced to stay in their room for most of the day, this was a new opportunity. An opportunity to expand their social circle and make more friends. A chance to try new things even if they end up not liking it.

On March 20, 2021, a pre-Serendipity week kick-off was held at Founders Hall from 6 to 9 p.m. During this, free Serendipity shirts were given along with some candy and beverages. There were a few puzzles to build there for people who wanted to entertain themselves. Some puzzles took people a little longer than others.

On March 22, 2021, there was a movie under the stars, the first event of Serendipity week. This event lasted from 6:30 to 10 p.m. During this event, students were offered snacks and cold beverages. The most important thing that was offered was the blankets because of how cold it was outside at the time. What exactly did the students end up watching in this event? The first two “Camp Rock” movies, to which one could hear a majority of the students singing along to the songs. 

On March 24, 2021, two events were being held. One of them was the fashion show that went from 12 to 2 p.m. The other event was the summer fairytale formal that was held from 7 to 10 p.m. In the fashion show, in each of the seats, there was a bag with a pair of sunglasses. During this event, the models sashayed down the runway. In the formal, people dressed from casual to dressy. Beverages, candies and snacks were provided to whoever came to the formal. There was also a goodie bag full of things like disposable masks, canteens and a bracelet made from some sort of fabric. 

On March 26, 2021, Lake Fest was held from 12 to 5 p.m. As the name suggests, it was held at the lake. The silent disco was held from 7 to 10 p.m. between Bryan and Milner Hall. During Lake Fest, there were many things you could do. People were able to go up to one of the club tables and engage them in conversation. There were tickets given to people so they could get some food to eat after signing in. People were also given the chance to watch their peers perform on stage in a talent show. During the silent disco, everybody was given a set of wireless headphones. There were three DJ’s, and the headphones allowed for you to switch its colors. Every time someone switched their headphone’s color, it took them to one of the three DJ’s stations. 

All around, Serendipity week made the week of March 22 very eventful. Students had a very positive view of Serendipity. Students were asked about their favorite event and what they liked about Serendipity. They were also asked what they hoped to see for next year’s Serendipity.

“I liked how they made sure everyone was being safe and how they tried their best to make sure it felt like a regular event,” said first-year Betzy Cilio. “Even though everything was quite weird to be able to go out and see people, hear music. My favorite event was definitely watching the performances by the students. I hope next year’s events have more students and more people. Also hope it’s less awkward and that there are fewer COVID restrictions or none at all.”

“Well, this is my first Serendipity event, and I got to perform. It was about enjoying myself,” said second-year DaShawn Rouse. “My favorite event was the Lake Fest. I got to be around people, and different people on campus including me were able to showcase our talents. I hope for another talent show. I hope there will be more times where we can cheer, hug and laugh. It’s a comfort thing. We all need comfort, and the pandemic took that away from us, so this would be good.”

“I liked how it brought everyone together for something fun during a long and stressful semester, and how it was full of positive energy,” said first-year Darren Brady. “My favorite parts were Lake Fest and the silent disco. I hope that next year more people will be able to come out so that the events can be larger scale like they’ve been in the past. Overall, it was impressive considering the circumstances and it was rewarding to be a part of its production.”