Hairstyles, nails, makeup and dates are the first things to cross a girl’s mind when the subject of prom is mentioned. But, not mine.

When I think of prom, I imagine bright lights, the lure of the photobooth and me on the dance floor, a wide smile on my face as I move to the beat of the music. The best part?

My tuxedo-clad counterpart is nonexistent.

To top this “Promenade Sundae,” this vision of mine came true at this year’s Junior Prom, “A Night in the Enchanted Forest.”

Though it is traditional to enjoy prom night with a date, I knew that I wouldn’t need another person with me to have a good time.

Some consider going ‘stag’ to prom “social suicide,” and I can’t understand why.

From a young age, I’ve always aimed to be more independent. Breaking social norms is something I enjoy: from wearing slacks instead of a dress for special occasions to preferring rottweilers over chihuahuas. My view of the tiresome subject of “fitting in” has always differed from most others in my age group.

It was for these reasons why I was comfortable with going “stag.”

Though I am sure bringing someone to prom sets the mood for a fun night, I imagine it can also be a hassle; providing for a date equates to a lengthy checklist of matching colors, buying maile leis and corsages, producing the “perfect” look and in the end, you are responsible not only for your enjoyment, but also for your date’s.

Which is completely okay if someone enjoys it. I, for one, do not.

For me, prom was very much a “one woman affair (minus the input from Mother and Father Dearest).”

I bought my dress and accessories without having to “butt heads” with someone. This allowed me to shop for what I wanted, creating the “look” that I wanted to portray on prom night. I did not feel the pressure to “look good” for someone. I decided what look and style I wanted for my own benefit, not anyone else’s. For me, the only thing that mattered was that I have fun at prom.

And boy, what a great time I had!

I danced the night away with my good friends and fellow stag classmates, not paying much heed to the couples surrounding me. Even during slow dances, I linked hands with friends and swayed along to the songs. My friends who had dates even included me in their group photo, which was nice because they still thought of me despite having another person with them.

The thought that going “stag” to prom results in a bad night is completely wrong. A person can still have fun at these events without a date. Going by yourself to prom has fewer responsibilities and also saves parents a few bucks. Don’t let social pressure to bring a date ruin your plan to go alone; there is nothing wrong with going stag. Likewise, there is nothing wrong with going with a date.  It’s all personal preference.

To all those who plan to go “stag” to any event any time soon: GO FOR IT! In the end, only you are responsible for the experience you have.

I’m here to say “Stag is a way to have your own say on prom day!”