On the morning after Thanksgiving, some students will sleep in, some will spend extra time with family and others will get a head start on holiday shopping by taking part in America’s unofficial holiday, Black Friday.
Black Friday also marks the unofficial start of the Christmas shopping season. Some praise the stores opening at midnight on the end of Thanksgiving, while others feel that Thanksgiving is being overshadowed.
“I’m against it. I think it highlights a lot of flaws in our society,” said senior Rachel Peterson.“Stores compete, and people are literally fighting and getting trampled. No matter how good the sales are, I don’t think it’s worth it. I love the idea of the holidays starting, but it definitely does not bring out the holiday spirit. People’s lives are at stake.”
Senior Angelica Perez participated in Black Friday with her mom and sister for an all girls day and had mixed feelings about the event.
“It was crazy,” Perez said. “I almost got trampled, and people were so vicious. I did get some good deals on presents, but this year I think I’ll choose to sleep.”
Senior Jill Black works in retail at Victoria’s Secret and has participated at the other end-of-the-holiday chaos.
“I’m not really into the whole Black Friday shopping craze myself yet, just because I don’t ever have money to do it,” Black said. “I do spend a lot of time at work getting the store prepared. We have furniture to move and marketing to replace—it’s a lot of work.”
Black brought up the fact that not only is Black Friday stressful for early-morning shoppers, it’s bad for employees as well.
“What makes us most nervous is not that there are people who want to get in, but that there are people who take advantage of the craziness and want to take stuff out without paying. It makes me very nervous,” Black said. “Scary customers come in every so often, but it definitely heightens during the holidays.”
There seem to be mixed feelings concerning Black Friday on campus, but if you do plan on shopping, here are some strategy and safety tips:
•Make a Christmas list for family and friends. If you have it written down, you won’t get caught up in the moment and impulse buy.
•Bring a buddy, and dress comfortably.
•Plan the stores you want to visit and map a route.
•Be sure to re-check ads for time-specific discounts.
•Research unfamiliar products to avoid becoming deal hungry and ending up with a poor product.
•Compare prices and see what is included or excluded from the deal. You don’t want to end up having to buy parts later.
•Don’t forget to get a gift receipt.
•Steer clear of any mobs forming and be aware of your surroundings.
•Store any bags in the trunk of your vehicle and out of sight.
•Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and be sure to keep purse/bag zipped.
