Thinking about sitting out this year’s formal? No worries. You are not alone.
Piedmont University’s annual formal is just around the corner. Hosted by the Campus Activities Board (CAB) and Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, the formal has a new twist on its theme this year, masquerade.
Formal is typically a place for people to socialize and dress to impress, but it is not the scene for everyone. Dressing up and picking out outfits can be a fun build-up, but it can be difficult for college students to afford pricey outfits. There is a lot of anxiety when it comes to picking out something you like and feel right for you, but it also takes effort to impress your friends or a special someone.
It can be tough for the single students out there to watch their friends and everyone at the formal have a date. Hanging out with friends at a formal can be fun, but at the end of the night, it typically becomes a couples-only vibe.
Crowds can also be an issue for those who have social anxiety, especially if it is already heightened. Being around obnoxious people, who are sometimes drunk, can be very overwhelming and stressful. The music is loud, it is hard to enjoy the night if you are not feeling the vibes and hearing your favorite tunes.
However, formals make great dates for couples and outgoing people. For some, it is a place to let loose and not stress about assignments and classes. While formals can be a fun way to spend time with classmates and friends off campus, the stress that follows can be overwhelming, making it hard to forget your worries and enjoy a night with your friends or partner.
Going to a formal is a 50/50 decision. Many love going and look forward to it every year, while others find it an anxiety nightmare. Either way, no judgment should follow anyone’s decision. If students want to have a fun night out, go for it! But if others would rather spend the night watching a movie in their dorm, that is also a great decision.
