May 21, 2026
Senior Year: Friends, Celebrations, and Farewells
Reflections of College Students and Their Parents on Senior Prom Memories
Whitney Hill, center with friends, Emily Sunshine, left, and Allie Sunshine at Plano West Senior High Prom, 2014.
Whitney Hill (center) with friends Emily Sunshine (left) and Allie Sunshine at Plano West Senior High Prom, 2014.

“Prom was a significant moment for me, signaling the start of a new phase in life and the end of my childhood. It’s often envisioned as the finale of high school, a memorial for its completion. I cherish having created that final high school memory alongside my closest friends.”

– Whitney Hill, Plano West graduate, now a Freshman at The University of Kentucky

“I never realized how emotionally charged my daughter’s prom would be until that day arrived. This marked the conclusion of an era — no more Valentine’s Day dances, no more Homecoming dances, and certainly no more Prom. Observing my daughter with her date and friends filled me with pride as I recognized the grace and maturity they have developed over the years. I felt a bittersweet sadness as these cherished years slipped by so swiftly. Time progresses so quickly that it’s crucial to stay present or you risk missing out on precious moments.”

– Tracey Hill, Whitney’s mother

Adam Greenspan, far right, pictured with friends at Prom 2013
Adam Greenspan (far right) with friends at Prom 2013

“Although prom doesn’t always match the perfect ideal we see in films, for my friends and me, it turned out to be a memorable celebration of our friendships. As we approached the end of our senior year, filled with college acceptances and future planning, prom provided us with a moment to focus on our bond and reflect on our journey together.”

-Adam Greenspan, Pearce High School graduate and now a sophomore at Tufts University in Boston

Colin
Colin White (second from left) and friends from JPII Prom, 2014.

“Prom made me think of the saying, ‘You don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone.’ It was a significant milestone for us; you never know when you might reunite with these friends again. We ensured it was a night to remember.”

– Colin White, JPII graduate, currently a Freshman at Ithaca College, New York

“It was a true delight to witness these remarkable young men develop and strengthen their friendships throughout high school. Before long, they’ll be scattered across the country … I deeply miss seeing them on stage at JPIIHS and in my kitchen!”

– Tricia White, Colin’s mother

Zach Lochabay and Jessica Bershad at Plano West Prom 2014.
Zach Lochabay and Jessica Bershad at Plano West Prom 2014.

“Prom symbolized both the culmination of a lengthy journey and the initiation of a new one. It carried the essence of finality regarding high school. This was a night we had anticipated for four years; it surpassed merely being a dance. It truly was an unforgettable evening!”

– Zach Lochabay, a Plano West graduate, now a freshman at Baylor University

“Sharing that special night with Zach and our closest friends was significant, providing a fitting conclusion to four years of dedication in school.”

– Jessica Bershad, Plano West graduate and currently a freshman at The University of Texas at Austin

Prom was just one event amidst the whirlwind of senior year that included college tours, end-of-year banquets, graduation parties, and eventually, graduation. Each occasion marked the conclusion of a chapter, signaling the beginning of another. With twins in the mix, life was constantly busy, allowing us to foster connections with numerous friends over twelve years. While I miss the unending excitement, I eagerly anticipate the new friendships and experiences they will forge in college.”

– Don Lochabay, father of twins Zach (now at Baylor) and Alex (now at The University of Oklahoma)

Pre-Prom Dinner

Several local restaurants offer specialized prom packages suitable for larger groups; however, it’s advisable to make your reservations promptly. Here are some recommendations:

Bonnie Ruth
(Capacity: 35 guests)
Watters Creek
916 Garden Park Dr.
Allen, TX
214.383.6777
(Ask for Bonnie)

Picasso’s
(Capacity: 80 guests in the private room)
18161 N. Dallas Pkwy
Dallas, TX
972.248.0011
(Ask for Ramiro)

Kenny’s Grill
(Capacity: 14 guests)
5000 Belt Line Road
Dallas, TX
972.392.9663

You may also find this interesting:

Hosting a Prom Party? Proceed with Caution

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