Every Thursday night, students come together to shake off college life stresses by swing dancing the week away.

The weekly classes, which are hosted by the Swing Dance Club in the Aerobic room from 8-9 p.m., are open to any student who might be interested in learning how to dance – no matter their level of expertise.

Randolph Dupont, psychology freshman, said the swing classes are not only one of his favorite activities to attend at Loyola, but they are also helping him improve his dancing techniques everyday. He said that ever since he began dancing with the club, he has been able to add moves such as the Charleston, the Pretzel and the Foxtrot to his repertoire.

“I feel a lot more comfortable moving around and prancing about and doing turns and jumps and stuff like that,” Dupont said.

Anthony Pontecore, swing club vice president, said the lighthearted classes are an escape from college atmosphere and its many stresses, giving students a chance to take time off to focus on themselves and relax.

“Of the many avenues to achieve this pinnacle of self relief in a school such as this, it has become evident that the Loyola Swing Dance Club remains that sanctuary for a great deal of us, myself included,” Pontecore said.

Alexis Hazard, swing club president, said the classes are not just about learning new steps and spins. She said she hopes that students can also take time to relax and gain confidence in themselves by making relationships that last outside of
the classes.

“They open up out of their shell, they get comfortable, they make really good friends, which is more important to me than dancing,” Hazard said.

Hazard said that for the Swing Dance Club, which offers lessons, host dances and even puts on an occasional flash mob, having fun is the most important part of their club and the goal of each class. She added that when dancing and pleasure come together, they create an enjoyable environment for all of its participants.