As many students at Wheeling Park know, Homecoming is on the horizon. Those with dates are quickly getting together nice clothes, buying tickets, and, of course, putting together many, many cardboard proposal signs. Homecoming is no doubt an exciting time at Park, however you may have noticed that many people without dates are accepting the fact that they will not be attending homecoming.

Polls taken at Florida International University, showed that only 41% of the student body attended homecoming events–less than half.

Unfortunately the stigma around not having a date on homecoming is real, and has prevented many of us from experiencing homecoming.

Homecoming is a very important day for any high schooler. it’s a day that can create lasting memories, and is a staple of high school life. Homecoming is a once in a lifetime event that you will only be to experience while in high school.

Those who miss this opportunity will be forever left wondering “what if?” or “I should have went.”

Students need to take advantage of homecoming–especially any seniors or juniors.

“Homecoming is a great bonding opportunity for everyone involved, especially for seniors to have a final chance to meet new people before the year starts,” said senior April Lockard

Don’t let not having a date prevent you from experiencing this important event in your life.

So with all this said, what should you do if you feel uncomfortable going to homecoming without a date? Well, go with your Friends! Tag along with a couple, or meet some new people! enjoy your time. Homecoming is a great way for students to experience high school, whether that be your partner, your friends, or even alone. We only have four years of high school, so we better enjoy it.

It can best be summed up by sophomore Adrian Bell:

“You can dance; there’s food; what isn’t there to love?”