Trap SOCA
At SUNY Purchase, TRAP SOCA was a forgotten event that celebrated hip hop’s sound, style, and self-expression, honoring the impact trap music has had on campus culture. Inspired by the golden era of trap music (2013–2018) and the nostalgia surrounding 2016, I felt like this was the right time to bring the event back with a refreshed vision.
That idea expanded TRAP SOCA beyond a single party into a three-part experience: a fashion show highlighting hip hop’s influence on style, a DJ competition introducing new campus talent in an engaging way, and the final party, where the winning DJ performs their first official set at a live booking.
flyers designed by me
Trap Couture
Trap Couture kicked off the week leading up to Trap SOCA, and I directed the event as part of shaping the overall vision for Trap SOCA Week. The runway show fused trap culture with fashion, highlighting how Hip Hop’s influence shaped style, attitude, and self-expression. From emerging campus DJs to makeup artists and clothing stylists, the week focused on showcasing the creative talent that kept campus culture fresh and authentic.
Trap Mix
For the first time ever, students had the opportunity to choose the DJ for the party. After an open campus-wide search, three finalists were selected to compete, each blending trap with another genre; trap Latin, trap Caribbean, and trap R&B, performing live for a $200 prize and the chance to DJ the official TRAP SOCA party. Inspired by the long tradition of DJ battles in hip hop culture, the mix competition highlights emerging talent while transforming DJs into performers, giving student artists a platform to showcase their skills, connect with the crowd, and earn their first major booking.
Merchandise & Collaborations
Trap SOCA week featured exclusive merchandise available only at the three events, encouraging students to attend and participate. To win, attendees had to come to the event and compete in on-stage games, which drew in both regulars and students who hadn’t previously engaged. In addition, we collaborated with an on-campus dining hall to create a themed cookout meal called the “To-Go Plate,” a playful nod to to-go plate culture at cookouts.