SEMO students enjoy Silent Headphone Party at the University Center’s Ballroom

SEMO students attended a silent headphone party hosted by SEMO’s Black Student Union and Black Indigenous Performers of Color to give students the opportunity to enjoy a different party style on Feb. 2, 2024.

The event took place at the University Center Ballroom, where many students came together for a unique dancing experience.

Hosted for the third year in a row, the silent headphone party is a place where people can listen to different songs at the same time. Students had the option to listen to one of three different playlists: party, 2000s and R & B.

With glow and the dark glasses and wands, looking around to see different people dancing to different beats. Three colors red, blue, and green, each one representing a different playlist that can change per listener’s choice.

Senior history major Kiaya Thornton, president of the Black Student Union, said the silent headphone party is especially exciting because of their collaboration with the Black Indigenous Performers of Color (BIPOC).

“This is the first time collaborating with the BIPOC, and we were trying to get an engagement event and everyone on Instagram said they wanted a silent headphone party.” Thornton said.

Students from different backgrounds are able to come to this event and have no worries about any dangers that might come with other parties.

Junior animal science major Alyssa Harris said that she enjoyed the lack of judgment at the event.

“This is a harmless party… you can sing and dance as much as you want without people judging you.” Harris said, “I can express myself more here.”

Political science major Yana Isaakian enjoyed the chance to try something new.

“I have always wanted to try it. So, I am happy I have this opportunity,” Isaakian said, “without the headphones, it looks chaotic, but with them you understand why people are dancing.”

President of the Black Indigenous Performers of Color and senior dance major Tori Wyatt said,

“It’s also another opportunity to not only get out, but it’s another networking opportunity.” Wyatt said, “Even though we all have headphones, if you see someone jamming, you can still meet new friends or even just another hangout.”