Over-hyped tradition, or meaningful milestone?

Is prom really worth it…or is it all just glitz, glam, and loads of stress? 

Generations of students and families have evaluated whether prom is worth the experience or just an expensive photo opportunity, but truly, what is prom and why is it such a big deal? 

In many journal articles I read on the hype surrounding prom, I have come across one significant idea: prom is a meaningful milestone in a teenager’s life. Many articles go on to further explain that prom is a way of celebrating one’s high school years, and the media generally showcases prom as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

When I think of prom, I think of the endless amounts of dresses, hair, makeup, shoes, and jewelry combinations one can strut the night of prom. This brings me back to my younger years, and an oh-so-familiar memory of sitting at my mom’s shop, watching each girl, one by one, doll up for what seemed to be the night of their lives. I waited and waited and waited for it to be my turn, to be the girl who gets to get dolled up for the night of her life, but I can’t help but wonder, is it really worth it anymore? 

Often, teenagers face prom night with negative feelings and emotions. Dresses and suits are too expensive, and flowers die, so truly what’s the point? 

I believe that prom is an excuse to look your best, in something that makes you feel like you are your best, and a chance to dance away the high school stress with your peers. 

Prom also opens a window of opportunity to be unique and boost your self-confidence. The variety of dress styles and different color combinations embody this idea that we are all different, and it’s beautiful. 

This pivotal event in one’s high school career is easily labeled “too expensive,” “not worth it,” and “no fun,” but prom is also an opportunity to be unique, let loose, and enjoy a huge part of your high school career. 

Prom doesn’t have to be bogged down by a huge price tag, but it is hard to put a price tag on what should be the night of all our young lives. We truly only get four years of high school together before — poof — it’s all over.