The annual neon dance was a great way to kick off another great school year filled with new and old friendships under the Mountain. Although getting back into the swing of school can be difficult, this social event was an opportunity to alleviate the challenges of the first week.
In addition to other first-week community-building opportunities, the dance was a great way for new Bears to join the greater community and embrace school spirit. Makenna Komenacky ‘28 described the event as “A great way to make new friends. When I came into school I was very nervous because I didn’t know what it would be like to make new friends in a new environment but the dance helped me get out of my comfort zone and allowed me to hang out with new people.” Without the dance, it would be difficult for new Bears to begin forming close relationships with new peers early in the school year.
Despite the dance being held later in the evening, eagerness and excitement filled campus the entire day. Makenna also mentioned that one of her favorite parts of the dance was getting ready with newly made friends before, allowing spaces to bond and form relationships.
Returning Bears also found excitement in the annual dance. According to Julia Echavarria ’25, “The neon dance is always an amazing way to start the school year. It is really high energy and spirited which makes it an ideal first event.” As a returner, she always looks forward to it, and as a Green and Gray Captain, “being a part of the planning has been really amazing and I loved making everyone’s experience special.” The love for school spirit is shared by all.
The music throughout the night was a big hit because students were able to add requests to personalize their experience. According to the National Library of Medicine, “studies have demonstrated the benefits of music, including improved heart rate, motor skills, brain stimulation, and immune system enhancement,” and the Neon Dance was a great way for students to let loose and have a mental break before jumping into the new school year.
Altogether, the Neon Dance is a memorable event for new Bears and returning Bears alike. It encourages new students to meet new people, demonstrate school spirit, and wind down before the start of the school year!
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