As the countdown to prom begins, the anticipation of State High students rises. On May 3, Junior Prom will take place at the Pegula Ice Arena, and two weeks later, Senior Prom will be held at Penn State’s Bryce Jordan Center. While Prom will surely be a night for all to remember, it bargains the question, is prom overhyped?
From year to year, it seems that the fashion and trends around prom change drastically, leading some to wonder about the origin of the high school spectacle. An event that has become a rite of passage for teenagers during their high school careers started in the 19th century. Prom, short for “promenade,” is modeled after debutante balls of high society and semi-formals. A time for “young adults” to celebrate young people’s rising into adult society, featuring lavish meals, exquisite gowns, and theatrical performances. While prom has changed a lot, it is clear that teenagers’ behavior remains the same.
In 2025, prom has become something nearly bigger than life, to the point where some students would describe prom as the highest point of the year. Leading to the question, is this just the front to over-romanticize one night?
“I think that the dress prices are getting out of hand, and for a one-time wear, it is not very economical to be spending $500 on a dress. Something that has been changing over the years that I enjoy is the implementation of bouquets and steering away from corsages,” senior Addison Harpster said.
While prom is often only viewed for its glitz and glam, it may just be in place to cover up its disheartening qualities. On average, high school students spend between $900-$1,000 on prom, from the cost of prom attire, professional photos, dinner, etc. These numbers might seem absurd, but when taking a better look, the facts are right in front of us. Most name-brand dresses cost from $150-$1,000, with the rental of suits being around $300. Yet students have proven they will do anything if it’s in the name of tradition.
“I do not think that prom is being overdone. The planning, the dresses, taking photos, etc. They’re all factors of what makes the night so special and memorable, “ senior Maddison Watschke said.
But what if students are spending all this money and time on one night, because they think it is required? With social media in the mix for all social occasions, the pressure is on for students to impress. Stress due to the event comes from all areas, like social pressure, financial concerns, as well as the anticipation of the event itself.
“I do not think that prom is overhyped because it’s a fun event to look forward to during the long year, and is part of prestigious high school tradition,” Watschke said.
With everything being said, that’s not to take away from this magical night for high school students. Prom is a time to let loose, have fun with friends, and make memories that will last a lifetime. However, students need to remember why they are putting so much effort into one night. Don’t forget that prom is supposed to be a fun experience for students, not a stressful one.
