By Sadie Davis, Sports Editor
For six days, Ouachita’s campus life steps into overdrive during TWIRP week, transforming the standard school night of homework into themed nights full of music and dancing. TWIRP is an acronym for “The Woman is Required to Pay.” As a part of this tradition, the Women’s social clubs, along with Campus Ministries, each put on themed events in which students can bring a date for $5 or come alone for $3.
TWIRP is a Ouachita tradition designed to bring students together and encourage students to take a brain break and attend a dance with their classmates. Each club and organization has its own themed night. This year’s string of dances featured the Chi Delta Luau, Gamma Phi Angels in the Outfield, EEE ’50s Night, Chi Mu Masquerade and Tri Chi ’80s Night, followed by the Campus Ministries Barn Bash on October 16.
The dances offer opportunities for both freshmen and upperclassmen to connect to student life, while also allowing each club to showcase their traditions. The women of EEE highlight their signature ‘50s night by having members accessorize to reflect their club traditions.
“Throughout our years on campus, we have collected numerous traditions that we still see today, such as our pearls, red lipstick, and poodle skirts,” Sophomore Grace Atchley said. Beyond the traditions and themes, TWIRP simply serves as a campus wide celebration.
“It is a big party that everyone is invited to,” Tri Chi President Kinsey Gregory said. “If you are a freshman here for the first fall semester, it is an amazing opportunity to meet some amazing new people, and if you are a senior, it is a great time to hang out with friends.” For Gregory, the creativity of the student body is what makes the tradition stand out every Fall. “My favorite part is getting to see how everyone dresses,” Gregory said. “There are so many ways that one could dress for each TWIRP! Some people go all out with the themes.”
Although the luau skirts and neon windbreakers will soon be packed away, students are already preparing their boots for the upcoming Campus Ministries Barn Bash October 16. For both freshmen learning about Ouachita culture and the seniors making the most of their final year, the annual tradition provides an opportunity to step away from the usual campus routine and join in on traditions that become a part of the Ouachita experience.
