It all started in 1928 thanks to Otto Rohwedder’s invention of prom, a high school dance that everyone can’t wait for. It remains alive in American culture today and has expanded among other countries with a different name. So what is it? What is prom and why is everyone so excited about it? Prom night serves as a symbol of four years of learning, friendship, and school spirit, and it’s frequently the last time the entire class is all together before graduation. Prom has influenced many kids to get out and do stuff instead of sitting in the house all night. The whole purpose of prom, or any school-sponsored formal, is to give young people the chance to develop their social skills.

         Prom night serves as a symbol of four years of learning, friendship, and school spirit, and it’s frequently the last time the entire class is all together before graduation. For girls, prom is very important to us because it marks the day of adulthood, and indicates that they are graduating to the next stage. 

          A few years ago, an article on the language of prom looked at how many times prom was mentioned in text over the past century and found a major lull in the late ’60s and early ’70s. That’s because there was so much going on at that time — like the civil rights movement and the Vietnam War — that prom took a backseat while students focused on fighting for change. But it made a big comeback in the ’80s, with the help of iconic prom scenes in movies like Pretty in Pink and Back to the Future.

          If you’ve been to prom or are planning to go, you know how much one night can cost. Between hair, makeup, shoes, a dress, and a ride to the dance. The total can add up quickly. While back in the ’50s, dresses may have cost $50, these days you can spend hundreds on the perfect gown (though there are affordable options). In fact, in 2015, the average student spent almost $1,000 on the night! While some of that, of course, is avoidable (you can do your own hair and makeup and still look gorgeous, and you can drive to the dance instead of renting a limo), some are not. While the price of prom tickets vary school to school, they can often reach $100 in some places. If you’re ever nervous about paying for prom, talk to your school about it and see if they have any scholarships or alternative plans available to help get a ticket.

          Mccracken County High School is ready for prom this year, unmasked, dressed up,  and ready to dance. Makanda Rolfe stated “I can’t wait to go to prom this year! If I could dance with anyone, it would be with my best friend.” I think part of the reason why we hold on to something so tight is because we fear something so great won’t happen twice, so don’t miss out this year!