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Author: Christopher Chu
As the holiday season approaches, dormitories across campus are lighting up with creativity and cheer. Students from each dorm have come together to turn ordinary living spaces into dazzling displays of holiday spirit. From sparkling string lights to quirky handmade ornaments, the decorations brighten the halls and foster community and joy. We will focus on the HPSE Dorm, one of the many dorms on campus, and their decorations.
The Kickoff: A Decorating Tradition
The Kickoff: A Decorating Tradition
The HPSE Dorm, a cornerstone of campus life, has stood proudly for 40 years. Over the decades, it has grown not just as a place of residence but also as a community filled with meaningful traditions. One such tradition is the annual Christmas decoration event, which has become synonymous with the dorm’s identity. Manager Chang, who has overseen the dorm for several years, shared the story behind this cherished custom. “The tradition of Christmas decorations predates my time here,” he explained. “Since Fu Jen University is a Catholic institution, this event naturally aligns with the campus atmosphere, offering a way to celebrate the season while embracing the university’s heritage.” These decorations have since become a hallmark of the HPSE Dorm, cherished by both current students and alumni as a symbol of togetherness and holiday cheer.
What makes this tradition particularly special is the creativity and innovation poured into it each year. Every Christmas, the decorations follow a unique theme, designed to captivate and inspire both residents and visitors. Last year’s theme, "Crayon Shin-chan and the Magical Christmas Journey," brought a touch of childhood nostalgia to the holiday season. Meanwhile, the 111th academic year took a wintry turn with the theme "Frozen," transforming the dormitory into a magical snow-covered wonderland. These themes aren’t chosen randomly—they are a reflection of the vibrant ideas and imaginative spirit of the student leaders. Each new cohort brings fresh perspectives, ensuring that no two years look alike, and the decorations remain a highlight of campus life.
Crayon Shin-chan and the Magical Christmas Journey
Behind the scenes, the preparation process is just as rewarding as the final product. The event is a collaborative effort that brings the entire team of student leaders together, fostering camaraderie and a shared sense of purpose. The process begins with the division of responsibilities, as leaders allocate tasks for the academic year. These responsibilities are then broken down further into manageable steps to ensure everything is executed efficiently. From brainstorming creative concepts to meticulously crafting props and setting up the final displays, every step is an opportunity for students to develop essential skills, such as teamwork, project management, and problem-solving. This tradition isn’t just about decorations—it’s a learning experience, a bonding exercise, and a celebration of the collective spirit that makes the HPSE Dorm a truly special place to live.
Christmas 2022
Staff Member’s Reaction
Staff Member’s Reaction
From designing the initial concept to completing the final product, the dorm cadres meticulously hand-crafted every detail of the decorations—showcasing the cadres' creativity and commitment. These students devote their time and effort to enhancing their fellow residents' living experiences. Chuang Chenglin, a cadre with two years of experience, shares insights into the process: “It’s a challenge to brainstorm and visualize the entire setup, and it’s even harder to turn our vision into reality.” Despite the difficulties, the result is always impressive.
Sometimes the projects involve crafting small yet intricate items, such as a snowman made from a foam sponge carefully hung on the Christmas tree. Other times, the work extends to large-scale installations, including sleds, fireplaces, reindeer, and even a full-scale stable. "These projects are incredibly time-consuming," Chuang admits, "but when everything is in place, the props are arranged, and the lights are plugged in and lit up, the magical sight makes all the effort worthwhile." The finished display is a testament to the hard work and ingenuity of the student team, bringing festive cheer to all who see it.
Resident’s Opinions
Resident’s Opinions
The HPSE Dorm’s Christmas decorations are renowned for being the largest and most elaborate among all the dormitories on campus. The vibrant displays fill the dormitory grounds with the warmth of the holiday spirit, delighting both residents and visitors alike. Wu Yu-Sheng, a long-time resident of the HPSE Dorm, expresses his pride in the dorm’s creativity. “I’ve been amazed by these decorations since my first year at university. They’re not just beautiful; they also reflect our dorm community's unique character and dedication.”
In every way, the dorm’s holiday decorations have become a cherished tradition, one that fosters a sense of belonging and pride among residents while adding festive joy to the campus. As the years go by, this tradition continues to play a significant role in making the HPSE Dorm a vibrant and welcoming place, especially during the joyous Christmas season.
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