As a part of welcome back week, students arrived at the Otter Student Union (OSU) ballroom on Jan. 26 dressed to impress for the annual Winter Formal Ball at California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB).
At least 200 to 300 attended, crowding the ballroom with gorgeous gowns and boisterous mingling. Students were provided opportunities like getting free caricatures illustrated and taking photos at a booth.
There were gaggles of attendees who showed off their moves on the dance floor. The DJ played many throwback songs like “Party in the USA,” by Miley Cyrus, “Baby,” by Justin Beiber and “Just Dance,” by Lady Gaga. In addition to the many songs from the 2010’s era, current hits were also played, such as “Rich Baby Daddy” by Drake.
“I really enjoy dancing,” said second-year Emi Magoña. “I really like just dressing up and having fun with friends sometimes. [My outfit] is giving a mix between pseudo-Victorian goth and pirate. Honestly, I just kind of threw together what I had – I love goth fashion.”
For those who weren’t dancing, there were beverages, sweet treats and tables, which were perfect for those who sought a more intimate evening, or for those resting and rejuvenating from dance-induced-exhaustion.
“I really wanted to hang out with my new roommate, I felt like coming out here with her would be a really nice way for us to connect,” said Agostinea Puccia, a third-year student.
The event began to slow down around 10 p.m., but that was just the beginning of the after-party hosted by student musician Pak Joko and his crew. The rapper and his crew set up speakers and lights near the Visual and Public Art buildings, and had several dozen students dancing (and moshing) to some of his songs like “Boat out in indo,” and “Mongolian Beef.”
“I’m performing tonight because it’s my last semester at CSUMB, and more importantly, music is what I wanna do in life,” said Joko.
For some students, Joko was the main attraction of the night. “I did not want to go to the ball, I just wanna see Pak Joko,” said third-year Valerie Moralez.
Joko also featured an upcoming rapper “Chi Chi” in his show. “The energy was amazing. Pak Joko putting me on was a really big thing. I appreciate all of the fans and everyone coming out. Be on the look out for me. Stream ‘Thanksgiving Special,’” said Chi Chi, a second-year student.
By the end of the evening, students left the OSU/VPA building with high spirits, tired eyes and high heels in hand.
