Tension buzzed through the hallways long before the music started. Juniors scrambled for extra tickets, parents planned in secret, and seniors kept their expectations sky-high. Prom 2025 hadn’t even happened yet, and it was already the most talked-about event of the year.
This year’s prom at The Columbus School promises more than just a fun party, it’s the final celebration for the Class of 2025. With logistical challenges, changing traditions, and students craving surprise acts and wild memories, the anticipation feels heavier than ever. Prom matters because it marks the end of an era, and for some, it’s the last dance with their classmates, family, and high school life itself.
The value of prom isn’t just rooted in tradition—it’s in the emotional significance the event holds. For many, it symbolizes the culmination of four transformative years. It offers closure, celebration, and an opportunity to soak in one final memory with classmates before life begins to change. This shared experience creates a collective memory that stays with students long after graduation.
“It’s a very special moment to celebrate with our peers… kind of like the last big celebration of the year—and I think that’s very valuable,” said senior Santiago López-Vélez, president of the student government.
Prom also puts a spotlight on the efforts of student leaders and event organizers. With the legacy of previous proms looming large, expectations are higher than ever. The organizing committee must balance creativity with tradition, making sure to meet the emotional and experiential needs of a graduating class. At the same time, they must work with a limited budget and a long list of opinions.
“Last year’s prom set a very high bar for the organizing committee… it was excellent. We’ll see what they come up with this time,” López-Vélez said.
Behind all the glamour lies a logistical puzzle: how to manage the largest class in recent memory with limited space and ticket availability. This challenge has caused a ripple effect, especially for juniors hoping to get in. As demand skyrockets and supply stays the same, some students are left scrambling, revealing the limitations of the current system and the emotional toll it can take.
“I’ve been looking for a ticket for like six months, and no one has one… I’ve asked seniors, 11th graders, parents… no one has extras because the class of 2025 is huge,” said 11th grader Matilda Orejuela. “Me neither—for my boyfriend… he’s been trying to get a ticket too,” added junior Manuela Herrera.
The pressure to innovate and surprise is becoming a growing concern for students who feel Columbus prom traditions are too conservative. In a world of viral TikToks and over-the-top school dances, some students crave a more extravagant experience. They want to be wowed, shocked, entertained—and most of all, surprised.
“I don’t like traditional DJs… I think they should bring Silvestre Dangond or Enanitos. Other schools have extravagant proms with robots and everything… Columbus is always very traditional. I’ve never once in my life been surprised at a prom,” Orejuela said.
Pushing the boundaries of entertainment is no longer seen as taboo—it’s expected. This generation of students has grown up with spectacle, and they want their prom to reflect that energy. While some of their ideas may be controversial, they stem from a desire to make prom feel larger than life. These preferences reveal generational shifts in how young people approach celebration.
“Yes! They’re adorable, but I would tell them ‘no’ if it made them uncomfortable,” Orejuela said, referring to the idea of hiring little people for entertainment—a trend that’s sparked debate in some schools.
“I expect robots, mariachis, surprises, and a lot of fun,” Herrera said.
Often unseen, the parents of seniors play a critical role in bringing prom to life. From budgeting to coordinating vendors, they ensure that prom happens at all. Their behind-the-scenes efforts often go unrecognized, but their contributions help shape the experience students will remember for years to come.
“It’s not easy to please everyone… but the moms have been very committed and organized throughout the process,” said senior mom Natalia Londoño.
One of the most debated elements of the Columbus prom is the presence of parents at the event. While some see it as an invasion of teen territory, others embrace the opportunity for family bonding. This cultural nuance reflects a broader Colombian value: the importance of family, even in spaces typically reserved for youth. Students hold a variety of opinions on the matter, and the tension between independence and connection is clear.
“I think that it’s a great opportunity for family bonding… I’ve gone out with my mom in the past and I’ve had a lot of fun. But I do feel that sometimes it can be a little bit uncomfortable if you’re not that close with them,” said senior Isabela Acosta.
“I would love to be partying with my parents… It’s a fun experience, and it will only happen once in your life,” Herrera said.
“Dancing with the parents… has been my favorite prom moment so far,” Herrera added.
Of course, fashion remains at the center of prom preparation. From hours spent scrolling through Pinterest to last-minute dress swaps, finding the right outfit is both stressful and exciting. Each choice becomes part of the night’s identity—its own performance. Whether renting, designing, or rethinking decisions, students take this process seriously.
“I already have my dress… I had to find another one because I regretted the first. It’s blue, it has ruffles, it’s really pretty,” said Acosta.
“I just gave my designer a very basic design… because I want to keep my dress simple this year—so that next year’s dress can be gorgeous,” said Orejuela.
“I rented one… it wasn’t easy. I was very stressed, but then I found Anular de Vestiditos and I found it really easy,” Herrera explained.
Not everyone’s going with a date, but that doesn’t mean they’re any less excited. For some, prom is less about who they show up with and more about the energy of the night. Between good music and good friends, there’s still plenty of potential for memories. Simpler expectations often lead to greater enjoyment.
“I won’t be going with a date… a normal DJ would be fine, but a surprise would definitely be exciting. I hope we can dance a lot at prom,” López-Vélez said.
Prom 2025 will inevitably mean different things to different people: a rite of passage, a party, a night of glamour, a farewell. But for every student, it will be a memory—a snapshot of high school frozen in time, bursting with color, sound, and emotion. Whether the night turns out traditional or bold, emotional or electric, one thing is certain: it will be unforgettable.