On Friday, May 17, the seniors of JP poured into the halls of Addison Park, ready to conclude their high school careers with a lively celebration. Eager couples walked into the magnificent hall as numerous limos arrived. The amount of effort each individual put into their outfit and appearance demonstrated their desire to end this school year with a prom they would never forget.
Students started arriving at around 6 PM. The seniors gazed at the exquisite lighting, ornaments, and intricately decorated staircases as they walked in. Masses of people danced while others consumed their favorite delicacies and refreshments.
In addition to the songs and music, the seniors also took pictures with their friends at the photobooth. For many, this would be the last memory they could make with their high school friends.
“Besides all the fun and festivities, probably my favorite part of prom was seeing all the smiling faces of my friends, and chatting with people I hadn’t seen or talked to in a while,” said senior Andy Xu.
As the seniors danced and sang along with the most popular hits of 2024, there seemed to be something that everyone felt but never said out loud: they knew that this would be one of the last times they would see their friends. But at the same time, they knew that this was just their entry point into a wider world, full of others just like them who have had equally diverse experiences.
As senior Ashvin Satwani put it, “Prom was an unforgettable experience. I had so much fun dancing and taking pictures with all the friends I’ve made the last four years!” Many others shared the same positive feelings.
The celebration lasted until 11 PM, when many of the weary but optimistic seniors drove home while others kept partying in other locations, not able to part from their old classmates. As they physically and psychologically departed from their high school past, the class of 2024 was prepared to face the turbulent yet inviting real world.