1) How did you decide on dances and pick out songs? Was the process difficult?
I've been a part of the multicultural Gala for three years now. I started in my sophomore year and have been a captain the last two years. I was so excited to be captain, so I thought of ideas for dances and songs. I decided by just looking through Tiktok and Youtube videos of quinceañeras. I would just look at the choreography and see what I liked and what I didn't, then adapt the choreography to my taste. You could say it was difficult due to the fact that I am very indecisive. When it comes to the dances, as a captain I had to take limited time available and the capabilities of my team members into consideration. Also, shout-out to my girl Grismara for helping me too!!!
2) Teamwork and commitment is a big part of Gala. How were you able to teach the dance to your fellow members (did you practice outside of school? did you record video clips to record, Etc.) ? Were there any troubles you had with your members (attendance issues, ticket issues)?
I was able to teach the dances from memory, I had to be smart with the time that I had. As a basketball manager and a gala captain, I needed to manage my time wisely. I would send the videos of the choreographies previously picked and have my co-captains help during my absence. We also had practice some Thursdays in Ms. Pasqualini's room. I definitely had attendance and people issues and quitters to worry about, but in the end everything worked out. Also, something I would change was the entering and ticketing of the gala. Unfortunately and unexpectedly, many people weren’t able to get tickets for their family and friends and my family and I had a very unpleasant experience on Gala day. I would love that next year our “great administrators” would improve the process of obtaining tickets and getting in to watch their family’s performance. I also hope that the administration doesn't cause problems for other families next year like they did to mine.
3) What part of Gala did you enjoy most?
I enjoyed Gala the most when we worked together on creating dances. Seeing our hard work pay off during practices and finally coming together on Gala day was really fulfilling.
4) If you could, would you join Gala again? If so, which ones would you be interested in?
Yes!! Of course I would. Gala is so fun and the purpose is to share different cultures with others. I’m interested in joining the Indian or Afrosoka galas, as there is passion and dedication displayed by their participants. The footwork and all the jumping just makes everything more fun and interesting. I think these two galas are very different from Hispanic which is why I want to try to do something different.
5) Do you recommend Gala for upcoming freshmen?
Definitely!! Gala helps one to get out of their comfort zone and meet new people. It offers a wonderful chance to become fully involved with others to be able to share their cultures. Gala can be a fulfilling and enlightening event that enables first-year students to make friends and discover their strengths.
Interview Conduction by Maeve Higgins
Edited by Heba Elkouraichi
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