As the last month of the semester comes to a close, students have the opportunity to relieve some end-of-semester stress in an evening spent dining and dancing with friends and lovers at the Student Association's annual Spring Gala; to be held tonight at Samuel's Grande Manor, 8750 Main Street, in Williamsville.
As the spring counterpart of the Winter Gala, the Spring Gala allows students to participate in a formal night that is affordable, fun and formal said Paul Balzano, SA chief of staff.
"It's a great night when people can get dressed up and party. And for those that are 21, they can take advantage of the open bar," he said.
According to Balzano, the atmosphere at the Spring Gala is unique to this time of year. Enjoying pleasant April weather and donning their best clothes offers a throwback to students' junior and senior high school proms.
"The Galas are a good time, especially the Spring Gala because the weather is usually a bit nicer by this time of year and it gives students more of the prom feel," said Balzano.
According to Balzano, the Gala is a real treat, featuring dinner, music and an open bar that will be available all night. For students who do not have transportation, buses will be provided.
"We take you there and bring you back so you have less to worry about. All they have to do is come in to the SA office on the third floor of the Student Union and there will be sign up sheets," said Balzano.
Bus pickups will be provided at Ellicott, Hadley, Southlake, Governor's, Goodyear and the corner of Main Street and Heath. The buses will also pick students up at the end of the night.
For some students, the Gala is a much needed stress reliever, but for others forgetting schoolwork for a night at this point in the semester might spell disaster.
"I'm not going because I have way too much work to do before the semester ends," said Ajay Abraham, a senior business major.
Some students, however, have other reasons for not going to the Spring Gala. Some say the $25 ticket price is too steep for them to float. Others are just unfamiliar with the event.
"Huh? What is it? I've heard of Winter Gala but I haven't heard of Spring Gala," said Natasha Mehta, a sophomore history major.
But for most, it will be a time to reflect over this year's accomplishments and savor their last few weeks in college.
"I'm going to the Gala because it's chance for me to enjoy a night out with my friends before I graduate," said Pavan Bahl, a senior management major.
Dela Yador, SA vice president elect and a junior communication major, said the Gala is a special event that differs from other events that UB sponsors.
"The Spring Gala is less formal than the Winter Gala and students can enjoy dinner and dancing to end the year off on a positive note," he said.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
