Point-Counterpoint: Is Prom Worth It?

Yes – Vishika Jasti:

Prom is one of those high-school experiences that people often dismiss as overrated or not worth the money, but those who have been through it know it is worth so much more than that. Beyond the photos and the fancy outfits, it is a night that carries real meaning, and one that brings people together in a way that few other high school events can. Prom gives students a chance to celebrate the end of an era, spend time with friends, and make memories before everyone eventually goes their separate ways. For juniors, prom feels exciting because it is one of the first real high school milestones that they have looked forward to for years.

For seniors, prom means even more because it is one of the last big high school moments before graduation and adulthood. Either way, prom gives students a chance to take a break from the normal school routine and just enjoy being together. What makes prom special is how different it is from regular school days or football games; everyone is dressed up, taking pictures, going out to dinner, dancing, and having fun together in a completely different environment. Even the preparation before prom, like getting ready with friends or planning the night, becomes a meaningful part of the experience.

While some people tend to get caught up debating whether prom is worth the price of admission, these concerns typically fade by the time the event arrives. What people carry with them long after prom is over is not the price of a ticket or a dress, but the laughter shared with friends and the moments that felt larger than everyday life. High school goes by fast, and prom is one of those rare events where everyone comes together to celebrate one last time before life starts changing. At the end of the day, prom is worth it because it is more than just a dance; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that gives students lasting memories, stronger friendships, and a chance to celebrate one of the most important chapters of their lives.

No – Scout Shipley:

As the high school’s 2025-2026 school year winds down, the annual spring events are beginning to take shape. April flew by, leaving us with the anticipation of the excitement of the final months of school. The air is buzzing with excitement for sports games, concerts, and most of all, prom. Whether a junior or senior, during the last few weeks of April the dance seems to be all students can talk about. With all of this excitement surrounding one glamorous night, I ask myself, is prom truly worth it? Will it become a core memory that we are bound to hold close for years to come, or will the night devolve into a dramatic mess? Typically, people argue that prom isn't worth it without a date. I believe that this is a false presumption; things can be fun with friends, too.

Nowadays, prom centers around photos rather than dates. The real debate isn't about romance, but rather whether we are willing to spend hundreds of dollars for some pictures. The issue with prom photos mirrors social media posts. Instagram can be a facade of a prim and perfect life, and prom pictures can be a front for a night that might not have been all it was talked up to be. It's true that these are typically the goals of such pictures and posts; however, there is a difference between a genuine smile and a picture smile. A candid grin reflects genuine happiness, while posed smiles can sometimes hide disappointment. Initially, prom is looked at as the highlight of a high school experience; a night of drowning in dresses and flowers. And, although many people find prom a fun and exciting time, there are also people who choose not to attend.

An example of a student who chose not to go is Sophie Castle, who said, “I think prom is a waste of time because I don't really like dances, and the price is outrageous.” Her perspective reflects why many students choose not to attend. In 2026, the cost alone has skyrocketed to an average of 800-1,500 per student. With a pricey ticket and an “it-has-to-be-perfect-because-it’s-my-only-prom” outfit and attitude, the expenses can get out of hand. Ultimately, the pressure to create a “perfect” prom experience is not worth the stress and expense that often come with it. If you do decide to attend prom, I truly hope that you have the time of your life. Just consider as the camera flashes, are you really having all that much fun, or is it for the pictures?