A “dreamy” night to remember, or a nightmare, this is the range of memories high school graduates have about their prom night. How will it go for YOU when your all important high school graduation arrives? Will prom night be the night to shine or the night you fall flat on your face? It’s totally impossible to know ahead of time what will happen, but there’s some smart planning you can do to stack the deck in your favor.

Don’t wait too long to ask- get your date early.  If you’re not already “tied” to a guy or gal, choose a date with whom you feel comfortable and safe.

Uncomfortable:
Prom nights are fun and romantic, but they have their own unique opportunities for awkward situations.  Every embarrassing moment feels worse in formal wear! Some uncomfortable situations may occur if:
• You don’t learn how to place the corsage/boutonniere on your date.

• You happen to get a “Yes” from the quarterback of the football team, the hottest chick on the cheerleading team, or some other hottie you’ve been crushing on from afar but don’t know very well.  If you two have little in common and not much to talk about, the night could be very awkward indeed.

• You didn’t practice walking in your super sexy but super high heeled shoes.

• Your parents decide to chaperone the prom and keep snapping pictures of you because they think you look so beautiful. Or your parent asks to cut-in so they can share a dance with you on your special night.

Safety:
Better safe than sorry! Prom night can be a real blast or as terrifying as a Jason flick. Some classmates may drink, fight, or get behind the wheel after they’ve had too many drinks. Your own date or someone else may, under the influence, become controlling or violent, not taking “No” for an answer. Whether the “No” is to drinking, top speed joyriding, or unsafe, nonconsensual sex, remember that nobody is allowed to make you do anything that you do not wish to do. “NO” means “NO”!

From past experience or reputation, you probably know which dates are safer than others. Make wise decisions even if it means not going with your “crush” or the most popular kid in the school. Taking a stand in an uncomfortable situation is commendable and your friends will admire that you are able to make good decisions such as not getting in a car with someone who has been drinking. Have a safe and fun prom night!