Smith students gathered on Chapin Lawn to enjoy the “make up” Convocation Carnival at 11:30am on Oct. 6., an event met with mixed reactions by students.
With three bounce house blow ups, including Axe Throwing, Hippo Chow Down, Dart kicking, team board games like Jenga and Connect 4, and a popsicle and t-shirt stand, the college provided students with many of the attractions that make up the traditional Convocation Carnival. However, students’ responses ranged from satisfaction to disappointment.
One student who asked to be kept anonymous, explained that they thought it was clever of Smith to schedule it at that time and with those games because of COVID precautions. “It’s COVID safe, so it makes sense. Something that’s way more fun would have attracted more people.” However, they wished there was more to the event.
A few other students complained about the timing of the event. Kat Polyzoides ‘23 explained, “this event is scheduled in the middle of the school week, in the middle of the school day when students are eating, people are in class, and we all have a lot of homework.” In non-COVID years, the Convocation Carnival takes place at night on the day of Convocation before classes start- a time when most students are free to attend.
Other Smith students engaged with the activities, waiting in line for a vegan chocolate mocha popsicle and laughing with their friends on the bounce houses. As course loads get heavier, students appreciated the time outdoors with fellow Smithies.
“I love this! It’s really relaxing and a nice break!” Julieta Michelin Salomon ‘25 said while axe throwing with one of her friends. “It’s not normal, but at least it’s something.”
Although COVID prompted a change in circumstance, many students reported to be in high spirits, making the most of the carnival with friends in between classes.
