TROY, Ala. (TROJANVISION) — The Trojan Center was booming with music and movement Wednesday night as students danced the night away during a Welcome Week celebration at Troy University.

The Trojan Center ballrooms was transformed from a daytime campus hub into a full dance party aimed at helping students kick off the new semester on a positive note.

Event organizers say the goal was to give students a chance to unwind after returning from winter break, a time that can be stressful for many.

“Welcome Week is centered around new students, even transfer students coming back to campus, freshmen, anything like that,” said Abby Gilliland, Welcome Week coordinator. “It’s really good to just meet new people. Everyone enjoys dancing and food, so this event is perfect for all of that.”

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Students were treated to cookies, brownies, and lemonade, but the main attraction was the line dancing. Popular favorites included “Cotton Eye Joe,” “Tamia Shuffle,” “Boots on the Ground,” and “Bunny Hop.”

Many students said the event gave them a much-needed break from the stress of the first week of classes.

“It’s the second day of class and everyone’s already stressed out,” said student Mackenzy Rhea. “College does that to you. Being here, letting all of that go, and just hanging out as one student body, getting that joy that’s sometimes hard to find during class, that’s what I enjoy.”

Others said they were simply excited to have fun with friends.

“We’re going to stroll a little bit when everyone gets here and just have a good time,” said Khelsea Stone.

Gilliland said the strong turnout confirmed the event was a success.

“We thought this would be the perfect event to do, and everyone seems to enjoy it, just to have some food and come out,” she said.

Students said events like this help them get into the groove of a new semester while building connections across campus.