Graduation Season; a true marathon

As a recent high school graduate, I am proud to say that I have survived the month of June and all that came with it. And now that summer has I arrived, I can sit back and reflect on those weeks in June where my sanity was truly tested.
But lets not put all the blame on June, the blame should be evenly distributed throughout April and May as well. For those, who like myself, planned on attending some form of post-secondary education, our marathon began when those first bursary applications became available. Even now, I still gringe at the word scholarship. Something that's meant to showcase the best of us, really ended up bringing out the worst. Hours of filling out endless forms, crying our way through thousand word essays and kissing up to teachers and local personalities in order to come out with at least some tuition coverage.
For those who were spared all the exacitement of scholarship applications *gringe*, the marathon began with job hunting. Now, unfortunately our quiet little town doesn't always offer the best when it comes to employment. So unless you plan or flipping burgers or folding shirts for the rest of your life, I suggest leaving, and fast.
But non the less, job-less or not, everyone of us gathered together on Graduation Night (note the capitols; fancy).  We sat through more than enough speeches, greetings and crying babies to last a lifetime. Luckily it's one of those events that you only have to endure once.
Now, on to the fun part, I can see it now, the finish line; Prom. Our one evening of enjoyment, dancing and of course looking our best. The down payment was made on the dress, the tanning, hair and make up appointments where made and the photographer was booked. How does one justify spending six hours preparing for a dance that only lasts three? I will never know. But having a day surrounded by my friends, great food and paprazzi around every corner, who can complain? However, the cost is a whole other story. The dinner ($), the flowers ($), the appointments ($$) and of course the tux/dress ($$$$$$$). Where's the fun part again?
If you can survive all of this then; congratulations. Here's your free shirt and exit through the gift shop, the rewards are well worth the stress.