Prom is often seen as a main high school event; a milestone for all upperclassmen. Students look forward to prom all year, but the reality of what prom really is can shock students who have never been. Prom is normally hyped up because it’s an upperclassman event. People expect it to be a huge deal and so much different compared to homecoming, especially because of the grade distinctions.
So what are the expectations?
Prom is expected to be loud and have good music. There is a DJ, a pre-made playlist, and videos that are released from the students who attend. Students expect to look dressed up and feel good about themselves. There’s almost a pressure to have the absolute best time. We see pictures of people from other schools going in fancy dresses and nice suits, which encourages others to really dress up. For years prom has always been a formal event. Many people expect prom to include a date and a special moment. All of the planning, prepping, and anticipation makes everyone’s expectations high. In recent years, many students have been bringing underclassmen as dates or dates from other schools. And then there is the tradition of naming a prom court: a once honored and coveted role has seen a shift in recent years.
Are these things true? Here’s the reality. For some, prom can be stressful instead of perfect. For example, the stress that comes with dress shopping, looking for the perfect tie to match your date, or the last minute rips in the dress. The constant appointments the days before, or leaving school early to be ready on time. Instead of feeling relaxed, people may feel overstimulated or even bored once you have been sitting at a table for so long. Not everyone experiences the romance part either, prom may be upsetting for individuals who went alone. This can make students feel lonely or upset.
When the time comes to run for royalty or get a slow dance in, not many couples participate even though there are so many of them at prom.
Sophomore Olivia Santoro went to prom last year as a freshman and now that she is going again this year, she has a better idea of what to expect. “My first impression was that it was cute and the energy was up. I felt like I was walking through a reality tv show. Seeing everyone dressed up was fun, everyone looked very good. After we eat, the energy is high while everyone dances. Everyone is jamming. I really enjoy the Photo Booth, but it’s not really organized. You get there and do your own thing and have lots of freedom. The music is ok but it can be better. I also feel like the prom queen and king royalty is unfair. I do feel like if you are dating an underclassman you should both be able to run as royalty.”
Other students who have never been to prom may have different opinions and expectations. Freshman Donna Gambardella who is going this year feels that “it’s going to be very fun and hype. I think the food is gonna be bad but the place will be nice. I think there will be lots of people since a lot of underclassmen are going. Especially crowded tables. There better be good music or I’ll be disappointed.” Along with Junior Peyton Urbano who is going for her first time this year. “It’s gonna be fun. A lot of dancing. I hope the food is good. I’m excited to take lots of pictures with friends and lots of chit chat.”
The biggest comparison in what these three students hope to see this year is good music and lots of dancing. Those expectations turned out to be true! Prom is often seen as a main high school event, in reality it is a main high school event but does it truly live up to the expectations? It depends on the person. People should enjoy prom, and leave the stress at home. It is a great event for students and their peers.
