In coming-of-age media, the main character is typically the loner, the underdog. The “party girl” or “party guy” are typically prescribed the characteristics of being “conceited”, “messy” and “uncommitted”. Not only to their academic work but life as a whole. At times, the story demands the “party animal” to undergo a physical or moral change.
The funny thing is that party scenes are where characters are the most challenged. Every character is forced to reckon with reality in its most beautiful and ugly aspects. However, there is a misconception that attending parties is a waste of time. In actuality, the social environment offers education through experience. You’re navigating through personal and societal pressures.
The highly sought after professional skills can be applicable to social events. This year, I have become the host of parties, no longer someone who is simply attending a social event. I will admit I have not always had the best of times. Before entering this role, I had not expected how much workload there was until the mental and physical labor fell onto my lap.
As time went on, I developed a career interest in event planning through this all encompassing experience. Here is a list of professionals skills and how I have applied them:
Attention to detail
During the first party, I created a to-do list that didn’t cover everything like I originally intended. I ran everywhere, tracking down supplies that I didn’t know where they were to begin with. In the end, my best efforts overlooked a larger problem. When things go south, I do not always have the tendency to keep my head cool. I can admittedly burn and crash. That first party, I ended up crying in frustration.
However, I’ve learned to give myself and others grace. Nothing is perfect, things are bound to not work out. As long as nobody gets hurt then the situation can be worked out.
Communication skills
Despite the number of parties I’ve attended or hosted, I still find myself being shy around people. I can have the desire to befriend people but then find no words to guide the conversation. Liquid courage does help me out but that is not always the case. Ultimately, I remember to have reasonable care and concern.
Navigating right from wrong can be difficult to do when surrounded by a sea of people. Suddenly, starting a conversation seems far out of reach but then I tell myself to get over myself. The conversations do not need to be other than that: a conversation.
“…I have learned to give myself and others grace. Nothing is perfect, things are bound to not work out.”
Effective teamwork
Fortunately, I don’t work alone, so I split the workload with my friend. I definitely lean more toward the logistics side of things such as creating promotional flyers, filling out documents, notifying the fire department, and responding to emails. Perhaps the slim office experience I have still has a magnetic pull on me.
On the day of the event, neither of us abandon the labor it takes. I learn to let myself be loose without tearing down my guard completely. Being the host means finding how to maintain a safe, fun environment.
interpersonal skills
When it comes to networking, the main aspect revolves around making an impression and making people seen through visibility. Hosting social events requires adjusting to people’s needs and wants. Some guests tend to be classmates, friends, or friends of friends. That being said, I often meet complete strangers of varying personalities.
Leadership skills
When people are brought together, the responsibilities sit on the shoulders of the host but, nobody gets to be an inactive participant. Social events aim to be inclusive for everyone but how connections and memories are fostered relies on the atmosphere.
Subconsciously or not, the host who’s running the social event asks themselves a few questions. Who gets to be invited? What kind of music is playing? Where is the event going to be held? Why should it come in the first place? What activities are being offered?
Problem SOlving
When it comes to alcohol, drugs, and relationships, there is bound to be a problem. It can be recurring or as simple as drinking too much. That is where the plastic bag and water bottles come in. Suddenly, you find yourself asking how you are going to get this person home.
“Hosting social events requires adjusting to people’s needs and wants.”
Organizational Skills
In the beginning, I didn’t know what I needed to get done until the days drew closer. How to check off the to-do-list becomes harder when other people are involved. Prior to parties, I had to keep in mind that I needed to submit an event application prior to the deadline that accounts for holidays and weekends.
Then, the fire permit payment must be received no later than a couple business days before the event. I then have to meet with the inspector to ensure the environment is safe without hazards. On the day of the event, there’s the set up and welcoming of guests. You are always on your feet.
Verbal Communication
As loud music plays in the background, it is expected that messages cannot be easily heard. I’ve learned to keep the messages short in order to get it across.
Written Communication
While emailing or texting people, I need to get across the message in a concise, efficient manner.
While the party culture can be exhausting and pricey, I recommend that while you are in college to attend at least one party. Being exposed to different drinks, locations, music, outfits, and people has widened my scope of knowledge. I have discovered what I do and do not like. Different parties cater to different personalities and that is for you to figure out yourself.
The college experience is a time of exploration but then if you go to parties, you are shamed. If there are no mistakes or risks being made then what is the point? Have we, as a society, prioritized “purity culture” in the name of “safety” and “righteousness”?