On 19 September, the sophomore class hosted the formal jay. This homecoming style dance serves as a fundraiser for the sophomore class. This year was the first time the formal jay was open to underclassman.
The event began at nine in the KAV, which was decorated in a Hollywood style. Guests were greeted with a theater style sign and entered the premise on a red carpet. Once in the KAV, attendees were welcomed with music, disco lights, and balloons. The night was spent dancing to music played by a DJ from WWEC, eating popcorn, or getting a picture taken at the photo booth, where each individual was able to take home a Polaroid commemorating the night.
Prior to this year, the only way an underclassman would be able to attend formal jay was if they were asked by an upperclassman. Inviting the underclassman caused the dance to have one of its biggest turnouts.
Sophomore senator Colby Schweibenz believes opening the dance to everyone helped to promote unity between the classes.
“[The sophomore class] felt like we wanted to include everyone.” says Schweibenz.
Sophomore class president Sean Fiedler feels the same way.
“The fundraiser is first year orientated. [The sophomore class] wanted to give the underclassmen the social experience of being with the upperclassmen,” says Fiedler. “Thanks to everyone who came and made it the great dance it was.”
Several freshman in attendance had a great time at formal jay. Freshman Daniella Moreira thought the dance was a memorable experience.
“I liked that there was a lot of people and that everyone was dancing. I also liked the idea of the photo booth. Overall, I had a great time,” says Moreira
Freshman Nicole Kane also had a great time at the dance. She loved being able to meet upperclassman that she would not have otherwise.
“I had a great time at the formal jay. Being able to meet the upperclassman was a great opportunity,” says Kane.
Like Moreira and Kane, freshman Katie Simpson and freshman class president Emily Seratch had a great time at the dance. While Simpson simply enjoyed the environment, Seratch looked ahead to next year.
“I thought the turnout was awesome and loved the atmosphere the lighting provided,” says Simpson.
“The dance was great for all students. It was great to be able to interact with upperclassman and meet new people. I think the sophomore class did a wonderful job organizing the entire event and making it fun for everyone there. It [is] going to be hard to compete with next year!” says Seratch.
Overall, the formal jay was a success. Many students had a great time and the sophomore class benefitted greatly from the vast number of those in attendance.
-Sara Kroboth
