Seniors celebrate with annual cruise around New York City

By Lori McCurley
Staff Writer

WPU seniors are experiencing their last hectic, fun-filled days of college as graduation looms around the corner. While tests and papers weigh heavily on their minds, they are also taking time out of their busy schedules to get together and relax with close friends. Many seniors felt that the Senior Dinner Dance Cruise was the perfect opportunity to forget about their cares for one night and just have fun.

On Thursday, May 1, seniors and their guests boarded The Spirit of New York cruise liner at Port Imperial in Weehawken for a four-hour cruise against the backdrop of New York City’s skyline.

The evening started with a free picture taken of each senior and his/her guest upon arriving on the boat.

A variety of musical genres was played throughout the night with a DJ and dancing on the first floor of the cruise liner. A musical floorshow, featuring old popular hits like “Be Our Guest” and “New York, New York,” was performed on the second and third floor for guests while they ate dinner.

Despite a cool breeze, the night was crystal clear, which only helped to enhance the spectacular viewing experience.

Erin Sambataro, a senior nursing major, was glad that she had the chance to see New York City from such a different perspective.

“It’s a blast,” said Sambataro. This is a “gorgeous view” of the city.

Tom Gardner, a senior majoring in physical education and athletic training, also loved the view but his favorite part of the cruise was “that we’re not in school.”

While some students were especially interested in the skyline, others were excited to take part in such a memorable event.

Merrissa Burklow, a senior communication major, was happy to have this opportunity to reconnect with old classmates.

“I’ve seen a lot of people that I haven’t seen in four years,” said Burklow. “I’ve never been involved in clubs so I wanted something to remember college by. It reminded me of who I’ve met since I started.”

Colleen Dorn, of Women’s Studies, was glad to share this night with good friends.

“All my friends were coming,” said Dorn. “It was my last event to do with them before I graduate.”

All guests also received a gift package, which included a champagne glass, a photo album and a little notepad. Each was inscribed with the cruise’s theme of the night “A Moment Like This.”

May 8 , 2003 Issue