Watch List: Last Day of Classes (LDOC)

As the second semester progresses, there is a buildup to one of the most infamous and anticipated days of the year, the Last Day of Classes. While some buildup derives from the culmination of the school year, it’s only partly the answer. Most of the hype is attained from the LDOC concert featuring world-renowned musicians who come and provide some much needed fun for Duke students.

LDOC has had a rich history of well-established musicians who perform at the concert. In 2004, Kanye West set the bar high for Duke students, according to an article from The Chronicle. Popular musicians like B.o.B. and Macklemore in 2012, as well as Steve Aoki and Kendrick Lamar in 2013, have helped maintain Duke students’ high expectations for trending popular artists.

There is certainly a lot more that goes into LDOC than just signing artists. Ensuring sponsorships and adding activities to make the day more engaging has been a challenging task, said LDOC co-chair Kenny Johnson.

“Working behind the scenes opened my eyes to how much work goes towards executing an event like LDOC,” Johnson said. “Extensive planning starts right at the beginning of the Fall semester and even earlier for the co-chairs. One of the best things about working on LDOC is seeing your hard work and planning pay off during the event.”

Student participation has become a major component of LDOC as well. Within recent years, the committee that plans LDOC has incorporated a student t-shirt design contest. The committee also works with DUU, DSG and the Duke Wellness Center, among other sponsors, to ensure that LDOC is the great overall experience everyone is hoping for. DSG sponsors pizza at midnight, and the Wellness Center promotes safety and helps pay for a barbeque in K-Ville.

With LDOC 2014 a few months away, preparations for the event are well underway.

“It's been special to see LDOC evolve into an event that both Duke administrators and students can be proud of,” Johnson said. “It's one of Duke’s best days for community building and I'm excited to help make this year’s event as accessible and inclusive as possible.”

LDOC this year is April 23.