My Tie dance dates were chosen at random. Each male freshman dorm was paired with one or two female dorms. Each boy put one of his ties in a tub from which the paired dorm selected a random tie, whose owner became her date for the evening.
But while some boys received one date for the evening, others were paired with two, three, four or even five dates. This disappointed many of the freshmen as they felt unable to experience a personal and individual connection their date. Others made the most of the situation and took the opportunity to mingle with others from the freshman class.
My Tie is one of the most anticipated events of New Student Orientation week for obvious reasons. For one, each freshman has the opportunity to meet President Andrew K. Benton and his wife, Debby. Both greet each student individually as they arrive at the Brock House — an experience offered by very few other universities.
Also, a student who chooses to participate in My Tie is able to meet at least one member of the opposite gender, which can help to break the ice in awkward situations. They are also able to see the beauty of the Brock House and its renowned seaside view.
Freshmen looked forward to the complimentary snacks and the opportunity to watch the president of their university play in the live band as well. The band played older songs that were refreshing, according to many students, compared to the typical mainstream music played at, for example, high school dances. Students had the opportunity to dance — and learn how to dance — with dates and friends for the rest of evening.
Incoming students left the Brock House with at least one more friend than they had before and at least one interesting story to tell for years to come.
