Fall term is officially coming to an end, but exams are not the only thing right around the corner. December is approaching quickly, and we all know what that means: it’s Semi szn! Deerfield’s semi-formal dance is a common favorite among students as it differs from your typical DA dance (i.e. no mosh pits or jerseys involved). The dance is located in the dining hall with a live band, swing dancing, a photo booth, and most importantly, a chocolate fountain. What’s not to love?
The most common answer to this question, and a downside many students see in Semi, is arguably the week before the dance as many students ask their dates during this time. Typically, chaos ensues.
The dance usually happens the first weekend back from November break, which is December 2 this year. So there is still time to ensure everything goes smoothly when you return to campus. Here are some do’s and don’ts that will hopefully guide you through the semi-asking season.
DON’T: Think guys have to ask girls.
DO: Get creative.
DON’T: Have someone else ask for you.
DO: Ask whoever you’ll have fun with.
DON’T: Feel like you have to ask someone.
DO: Get to know someone before you ask.
DON’T: Wait until the last minute.
DO: Plan ahead.
DON’T: Miss out even if you don’t have a date.
DO: Go with your friends!
Finally, don’t stress out about Semi! You can ask anyone in whatever way feels most comfortable to you. There are a few tried-and-true methods of asking. Making a poster, showing a video in class, surprising them with food, or reading a funny poem at sit-down have all worked. You could also write a song or decorate someone’s room.
Despite the varying levels of effort people put into their Semi asks, the response is often a yes. So if you do decide to ask someone and believe both of you would have fun going together, it doesn’t really matter whether you spell out “Semi?” in candles and red roses on the lower levels or simply ask “Will you go to Semi with me?” Whichever way you decide to ask and either way they respond, there will still be people to dance with and plenty of chocolate in the dining hall.