Prom is supposed to be one of the most important parts of a high school experience. The girl goes out to find her dress, as the guy figures out where in the world to get a tuxedo. What’s supposed to happen if everything isn’t planned to turn out like it does in the movies?

In the movies and also in reality, it has always appeared to be simple to find a date for prom. It’s not just any dance that everyone is attending, it’s the one chance everyone has as a junior or senior to have a night to remember. Some choose not to go due to expenses, or merely for not having a date. A lot of people might even choose to just go with a group of friends. Some just find it pressure-filled to find a prom date in such a timely matter, especially if you happen to be single.

“I guess [it's stressful to find a prom date] because it seems known to take a date with you. Senior year is like you have to have one to go,” junior Ashlyn Balogh said. 

Prom is not centered on having a date, even though it seems like it is. The media places so much importance on it that it makes it seem as if everyone is obligated to have a date for prom. Everyone should follow through with what seems best for them. There should not be any sort of pressure to attend the prom just because you don’t have a date. The option of going with a group of friends is always open.

Senior Katherine Reynolds agrees that it shouldn’t be a problem to go with your friends to prom.

“Just go with your friends and have fun anyways, because you’ll still have a good time.”

Prom is taking place this year Friday, April 22 at the Waterfront in Tempe from 7-11p.m. Whether you’re taking or a date or going with friends, make it a memorable night.