A tradition, a ceremony, the moment they’re finally upperclassmen. Adrenaline runs through the body of rising seniors as they enter the gymnasium. The junior ring ceremony is where now juniors are inducted into their senior year, or at least exposed to a glimpse of it. It’s the moment where they enter the next stage in life.
Beginning in 1835, each year a new class is allowed to customize their own class ring to serve as a tangible memory of high school. The ring itself is nothing but scraps of silver and gold; however, the meaning behind it is so much more.
Not only does it signify the next chapter in your life, it also holds much importance. The way someone wears the ring says it all. At the ceremony the ring is supposed to be turned the same direction simultaneously by all students; thus bringing good luck in the upcoming year.
When students first wear it, the ring is supposed to be facing the student so it can represent the pending graduation. While months go by, it is said that 15 people are supposed to turn the ring the same direction as when it was first received.
The 15th person to do so is someone who should hold special importance, and instead of turning it the same way as everyone else, they’re supposed to turn it the opposite direction, as in sealing the “deal.”
Although not mandatory, many students do enjoy the idea of a class ring. This token started with a proposal to signify the unity of the present class, and to hold as a remembrance of the high school years. It’s a representation of the hardships and achievements that they’ve made to be able to welcome their final year with their graduating class.
