With glow sticks flashing and ’80s hits thumping through the speakers, the Friedman Student Union’s ballroom transformed into a retro dance floor for Glow in the Dark Zumba—one of the most high-energy events of Northwestern State University’s Demon Days.
Sponsored by the Office of First Year Experience as well as the NSU Pom Line, the event welcomed students to kick off the semester with movement, music and community. The ’80s theme added a nostalgic twist, with students sporting leg warmers, bright headbands and vintage workout gear as they danced under the black lights.
For many students, this event pulled them out of their comfort zone and helped them socialize with different people. It was their first opportunity to shake off the stress of the first week and dive into NSU life outside of the classroom.
Led by instructors and supported by members of the NSU Pom Line, the Zumba session mixed cardio with easy-to-follow dance moves. Adding to the excitement was Vic the Demon, NSU’s mascot, who joined the instructors on stage.
Tyler Hays, a sophomore communication major, came out to Glow in the Dark Zumba because his friends dragged him along to it. “It turned out to be very fun! I didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I did. The music was great, and everyone was just having a good time. It was a nice break from the usual routine,” Hays said.
Casey Colson, a freshman psychology major who recently started seeking new experiences, said they were drawn to the event by the theme and the chance to meet more people in a low-pressure environment. “I totally think it could help freshmen,” Colson said. “You get to vibe with everyone and maybe make a fool of yourself together. The main point is to enjoy it.”
Madison Lenser, a freshman secondary education major, saw the event as a way to decompress after her first few days of classes. “It was a great way to move around after a long day,” Lenser said. “I was feeling kind of overwhelmed with everything, new schedule, new people— but once the music started and the lights came on, I forgot about all of that. It was just fun.”
For many, Glow in the Dark Zumba offered a reminder that college can be about trying new things, making new memories and having fun along the way.
