By Mackenzie Grace Kinger, Special to the Journal
A high school pep rally is a fun event, often held before a big game or a new school year. Its main job is to help get students excited and create a spirited mood. As student Robert Butler said, “Pep rallies are the best way to show your school spirit and generate hype for the school year.” The energy and good memories from pep rallies should not just be for high schools, however. Colleges, no matter the size, would gain a lot by starting this tradition.
Getting Students Involved and Building School Spirit
Pep rallies are a strong way to get students involved and help them enjoy school more. High schools often have huge crowds at games and a lot of students in clubs. So colleges like Pellissippi State Community College could use these events to boost involvement by adding fun games and spirit contests. When students attend a rally, they see the social life of the school. This can encourage them to attend games or join clubs they didn’t notice before. More active students help the school build a stronger, more invested group of students.
The Importance of Community and Relaxing
Pep rallies help all students, especially those not already in sports or clubs. They are an impactful way to bring the student body closer together and help people feel more comfortable putting themselves out there. Butler notes, “There is something for everyone to appreciate and I know having them more often can play a huge role in changing the culture at school.” This means even a short rally can greatly improve a school’s overall feeling and spirit. Another key benefit is mental rest. Pep rallies would happen during the school day, giving students a quick break from classwork and stress. Butler mentions, “There is nothing like getting to spend an hour away from class and getting to relax.” This break can be a key reminder that college life is not just about stress and work; It’s about building a community and enjoying the college experience together. These breaks can lower student stress and greatly improve the school’s environment.
Creating Great College Memories
The biggest reason to have pep rallies is their ability to create good, long-lasting memories. The energy and shared excitement of a rally can create some of the happiest high school memories. Butler agrees, stating, “Some of my fondest memories of my time in school are when I was jumping up and down in the bleachers and screaming to my heart’s content.” These good memories should continue in college, as it can frequently be a stressful time of many big changes. Adding in some moments of pure fun and community through pep rallies gives students a much-needed respite. Even if a student just attends quietly, they can see the school’s spirit and feel more included.
Conclusion: A Message to College Leaders
These examples demonstrate the impact of pep rallies on student spirit, involvement, and personal memory. Colleges, including Pellissippi State, can and should use these events to boost college participation. Students and teachers would benefit from a break in the day to celebrate their school, whether it’s for a game or just to welcome new students. Pep rallies are a key chance to boost school spirit, get more people to school activities, and make sure college is about fun and connection, not just hard classes.
Note from the Editor
I am not the person to speak to the efficacy of pep rallies. In high school, I was very much an introverted wallflower. After reading through this piece, however, I can see the benefit and the appeal. Events such as these would draw in those people who are searching for something to get excited about, and more than that, attract people to Pellissippi State’s extracurricular events. How many of us are just going through classes, without even knowing that Pellissippi State has a basketball or baseball team? Something like a pep rally could bring some much-needed attention to all of our various extracurricular activities, and really get students excited and proud to be a part of a community!
