By: Abigail Chai, Center Spread Editor
Despite students’ begrudged return to school every year following a two-week break from the many assignments and tests of the fall, there is one occasion that most students can anticipate upon coming back: the winter formal! Typically accompanied by a week of themed spirit days and a school-wide rally, the formal is often one of the most anticipated events of the year.
Held on February 8, Mills lit up the night at Hillsdale Mall’s Pinstripes with over 400 attendees present. Unlike the previous year when the formal was held at San Mateo’s community college, students could do more than just dance the night away with their friends. A popular venue for exuberant parties and gatherings alike, Pinstripes offered a variety of activities for partygoers to partake in. If students preferred to shy away from the aggressive–but nonetheless fun–dancefloor, they could play a quick game of bocce ball, sit and chat with friends, or most notably, bowl! With 12 lanes to play from, bowling was a unique highlight of the venue which many expressed particular fondness for. In its own separate space from the booming ballroom, it was one of many features at Pinstripes that made this year’s dance just a bit more special.
And while school dances are often hit or miss with students, winter formal seems to have hit the mark for most. For instance, senior Jonah Zilberter (12) described the occasion as an “upgraded homecoming”, which he largely credited due to the venue itself. Despite its pricey entry ticket of $50, Zilberter overall found the price well worth it.
Some students though, such as senior Jimmy Guan (12), found the dance just “alright”. While not having any disdain for a particular feature of the event, he expressed a subtle distaste for numerous factors such as the music and environment of the dance circle.
With prom just around the corner though, upperclassmen can expect a lot more exciting news in the coming months. Taking place on a cruise this year, those who attend prom will get to enjoy the glamorous night on the San Francisco bay, watching the city’s bright lights from afar.
