On May 1, 2026, hundreds of students at St Andrews University took part in the annual May Dip, a tradition meant to cleanse academic sins and bring good luck in exams. However, this year, many participants expressed discomfort over photographers targeting them during the event.
The May Dip sees students gathering at dawn at East Sands to plunge into the North Sea. Yet, the presence of press photographers—particularly those focusing on female students in swimwear—has raised significant concerns about consent and body image. Anna, a student who participated, remarked, “It felt like it was just girls in bikinis getting pictures taken.” Her discomfort was palpable: “It ruined my night,” she added.
Olivia echoed these sentiments, stating that photographers seem selective in their targets. “They know what they’re doing, they know exactly who they’re picking out,” she said. This targeted approach has led to a growing unease among students about being photographed without their consent.
The university has cautioned students about the presence of press photographers at the event. With more than 60% of adults in the UK reporting negative feelings about their body image, it’s no surprise that many students feel vulnerable when subjected to unsolicited scrutiny.
The May Dip is not just a fun ritual; it’s steeped in history. It’s also believed to be the only remedy for the infamous Patrick Hamilton curse—an aspect that adds a layer of significance to this cherished tradition. Yet now, as students celebrate this age-old practice, they grapple with modern issues of privacy and self-image.
As discussions around photography ethics and body positivity grow louder, observers are left wondering how this will affect future iterations of the May Dip. Will students feel safe participating in such traditions if they fear being objectified? The conversation is likely to evolve as more voices join the chorus calling for change.
You may also like
