By Sabrina Carroll
Student Life Editor
Despite the freezing temperatures, Washington College’s campus heats up by the time Birthday Ball rolls around. A WC tradition to celebrate George Washington’s birthday, Birthday Ball always has so many different things going on, so it’s important to be prepared for the festivities. Here are a few tips if you’ve never experienced one and a refresher if you’re a Birthday Ball veteran.
Heels are fine for photos, but wear flats to the dance.
The look of heels is always fun, but the blisters and pain that come along with wearing them never are. Skip the experience of sore feet and bring a pair of plain flats to dance and walk around in. Plus, if it happens to be extra icy that night, you have less of a chance of twisting an ankle on the way there by wearing flat shoes.
Wear something you feel great…and comfortable in.
It’s an amazing feeling when you find an outfit that looks awesome on you, but make sure you can move around in it too. If you’ll be constantly tugging at the sleeves of your shirt or pulling up your strapless dress, you may want to consider another outfit option. It’s just not worth it to wear something bothering you the entire night.
If you’re going to drink, do so responsibly.
You may think one more drink can’t hurt, but the doctors at the hospital and the next morning’s headache beg to differ. Drink plenty of water and eat a hearty meal beforehand. It is always OK to choose not to drink.
Don’t leave your drink unattended.
This may seem obvious, but sometimes people still don’t seem to understand. Even if you are utilizing the bar at Birthday Ball, keep your drink in your hand or within sight at all times.
If you don’t absolutely need it, don’t bring it.
Nothing makes the night of Birthday Ball more annoying than having to worry about carrying cash and keys. To clear some space in your pockets and reduce your anxiety of things getting lost, carry a few dollars in case of an emergency, a couple of Advil pills, and your room key.
If the weekend of Birthday Ball is inching closer and you still don’t have a dress or suit, consider wearing a simple one and dressing it up.
If you still can’t seem to find the perfect dress, consider a simple solid color dress (black works really well) and dress it up with loud accessories and sharp makeup. Your look includes simplicity, but it won’t be the same as everyone else’s.
Split the time between your date and your friends.
If you’re at Birthday Ball with a significant other, there’s nothing wrong with enjoying the time with them, but don’t forget about your friends. Enjoy dancing with your date for a few songs then take a break to snap some pictures and grab a snack with friends.
Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
All it takes is one second for a fun setting to turn into a dangerous situation. Look out for yourself and the people around you. If you sense something is wrong or someone is being taken advantage of don’t be afraid to step in or reach out to Public Safety to step in. A fun Birthday Ball is also a safe one.
When students think of the best times at WC, Birthday Ball almost always makes the list. Remember to enjoy yourself, but also take care of yourself, and you’ll be set.