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| Ann Berlau ,
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Graduates face final expenses The price of graduating from high school was on the rise in 1990. Many graduates found that the cost of their diplomas could go well into the hundreds of dollars. Traditional costs of being a high school senior included senior portraits, which cost well over $200; graduation announcements, around $45; the Disneyland Grad-Nite trip cost over $150 and the caps and gowns ranged about $20. Expenses also built up when the seniors considered their futures. Those planning for college are encouraged to take the Scholastic Aptitude and Achievement Test which totaled as much as $20 each. Costs of college entrance applications were also added to the total. Recreation for the soon-to-be graduates also had a high price tag in 1990. The costs of football and basketball games, movies and dances put quite a dent in many a pocketbook. The biggest problem for 1990 grads was deciding who was going to pay for some or all of these expenses. "My parents helped with senior portrait expenses and I paid for a lot of other things from my salary," related Senior Char Fulkerson. She continued, "My parents always contributed when I asked them to though." 1990 grad Ken Whelan stated "We're trying to split costs, my parents and 1.1 think it's fair. It turned out to be a lot more than we anticipated though." Senior Rina Dobry believed the money spent is very worthwhile because "it is preserving all the memories of my senior year." Dave Sloan added, "I think the expenses are really worth it, because years from now I can look back and remember what a great year I had." By-Jane Tang |
