The Homecoming Pep Rally is the one opportunity students have to scream on the top of their lungs during school hours.

However, there is a large group of students who dread the Pep Rally and see it as painful rather than pleasant. A study block or time in the library is more appealing to these students.

Maddie Jones, a junior, has never been a fan of the Pep Rally.

“I don’t like being in a huge group of people yelling because it makes me feel awkward,” said Jones. “It feels like a mob of people.”

The clamber in the gymnasium during the rally is similar to that of the “student section” at Home Football games. Just like it is optional to attend after school sporting events, some believe the Pep Rally should be optional as well.

“I’d rather get the option of going or doing work, or at the very least get more space than just the gym because it’s so constricted,” said Jones.

Caroline Lohr (’18) enjoys the school spirit but remembers feeling overwhelmed in past years.

“I think their should be alternative options for the students who don’t feel comfortable at the pep rally,” Lohr said.

It is understandable that students would feel anxious in the jam-packed bleachers. The calmness of the Media Center seems more inviting.

“We’ve worked really hard on organizing the activities in this years Pep Rally,” said Student Council Secretary, Alethea Jadick. “It’s disappointing to hear people don’t want to go because it’s supposed to be fun for everyone.”