Students from Durham College laced up their skates for a night of fun, friendship and Canadian winter tradition at the Campus Ice Centre. The late night skating event, organized by the Student Development Office, was meant to unite students from different backgrounds as well as promote participation among all members of the school community
Christina Dixon, manager of student development, explained the inspiration behind the event, talking about how it lines up with the college’s goal of engaging students outside of just the classroom.
“The inspiration came from the winter season—skating is a popular Canadian pastime and students really like to stay up late,” Dixon said.
When running such social events, organizers have to focus on not only the social aspect but also the importance of inclusivity, ensuring that all students with or without disabilities can take part. For example, at the late skate, students who are in a wheelchair had the option of taking part with a volunteer to help them on the ice.
“For in-person events, accessibility is very important,” Dixon noted. “If it’s a physical activity, we always ask: how can we make it something that everyone can participate in?”
For many students who attended, the opportunity to socialize with friends as well as have a break from their academic life was appealing, in addition to being able to skate for free.
Sport management student John Savage shared what motivated him to attend.
“One of the things that made me want to come out tonight was just seeing friends I hadn’t seen in a while and just taking in the vibe of the community,” Savage said.
Savage also thinks events like this help shape the student experience outside of just the classroom at Durham College.
“I don’t necessarily think Durham College is known for being the most community-driven school,” he admitted. “So any effort to increase those efforts and get people more connected is a good one.”
The event had a good turnout as the students participated in the entertaining and casual environment. Savage mentioned that the best part of the night was watching so many people take an opportunity to step away from their busy lives and live in the moment.
“They could easily be at home sleeping or getting ready for the next day,” he said. “But instead, they decided to come out here and have the time of their lives.”
Students can stay tuned for further events organized by the Durham College Student Association (DCSA) and the Student Development Office as the semester rolls along to ensure that the school community continues to grow.