I WALK INTO THE ROOM reserved at the Rec for our Songfest rehearsal. Today’s agenda: a complete run-through of the mens’ dance, in which college-aged men strut their assets and desperately grasp at rhythmic purity. Next, we will drill the partner dance, where two separate groups of paired couples will learn complimentary routines.

The room is too small for this many people— 45 guys and 45 girls crammed into a space designed for yoga or instruction. It smells like sweat. Everyone is dressed in Halloween costumes.

When I learned that my next assignment was an investigation into the world of Songfest, I had no idea what I might find. I’ve travelled the world reporting for The Mugdown and investigated some unforgettable things, but nothing I’ve done draws any parallels to participating in Songfest.

Songfest is hosted by the sorority Chi Omega, and the dance competition has been held annually for the past forty years. According to the event’s website: