After the pandemic cancelled proms, GCC gives its students a chance to have one.

Prom is a time where students are most excited for dressing up, getting a date — or going with friends — and dancing the night away! This was nothing different here at SUNY Genesee Community College (GCC) for me and my friends. The office of Student Engagement & Inclusion (SEI) organized a Second-Chance Prom to give an opportunity to the students who did not get to go to their prom in the previous years due to the pandemic. 

My friends and I had so much fun meeting up in the women’s bathroom in the arts building to get ready. We did our makeup and hair, then put on our gorgeous outfits. I met up with my date, and we all rushed with excitement to the Student Union where the prom was held. 

The room was decorated beautifully with the theme of winter. The room was dark with flashing LED lights and great music was being played over the speakers by Genesee Community College’s 90.7FM Radio Club. Many students danced, some stood conversing at the banquet tables, and others chilled on the couches. There was also a buffet and drink fountain. The food was very delicious, and they even gave the guests customized SEI cups with lids and straws. 

The evening started by greeting my other classmates. Later, my friends and I went to the photo booth to take fun pictures that we will have amazing memories of forever. My date and I also took some pictures in the photo booth and made our way to the dance floor. We danced to all sorts of music from Bachata to slow dancing. 

The office of Student Engagement & Inclusion also had a more gender-neutral version of prom king and queen — Cougar Court Royalty. Everybody was waiting with anticipation to see who would be chosen as the Court Royalty. My friends and I were very excited when they named my friend as part of the Court! All of the winners looked great with their crowns, tiaras, and sashes. 

The Second-Chance Prom was an amazing night of dancing, hanging out with friends, and meeting new people. It was a great college memory that we all collectively created. GCC not only is a great school to begin your education in the USA, it is a wonderful place to make lasting memories! 

Francesca Pieter, from the Caribbean island of Curaçao, is studying Theatre Arts at Genesee Community College.