The tradition of yearbook signing has been around for centuries, and as the end of the year approaches the stress rises of what to write in someone’s yearbooks. Just writing “HAGS” isn’t gonna cut it, you need to add something special to your end of the year messages. Yearbook signing traditions date back to the 1600’s which it was essentially just a scrapbook, with signatures, yet the idea is still present. Some people have a unique way of signing a yearbook and some people don’t. There’s a lot of thought that goes into signing the book like how you know the person, the level of relationship and so much more. Let’s talk about some do’s and some don’ts.
The do’s of signing a yearbook is to write something memorable, personable and overall meaning to the person you’re writing to. Some examples are: an inside joke, your favorite memory, a quote, or a thoughtful message. Compliments are simple, but always appreciated by others. Keep it short and sweet, yearbooks can be signed by over hundreds of people and there’s not always enough room for that. Always use neat and legible handwriting, and sign your full name.
Yearbook club president Ryan Zollweg says, “My go-to at signing a yearbook isn’t just “Hags” because that doesn’t really mean anything and does not show your unique signature. I always write a personal and different message for everyone so it makes them feel special.” Maya Marino says “When I sign yearbooks, I like to put a lot of effort and show how someone has impacted my life. I think it’s important to write something personal and meaningful.”
The don’ts of signing a yearbook, is writing disrespectful or rude messages. Many people sign yearbooks, and read others’ entries. Don’t confess anything, or write something you wouldn’t want anybody else to read since chances are, somebody else will. Always try your hardest to not smudge ink, or have bad handwriting. People want to read what you wrote and you cannot if it’s illegible. Lastly, don’t write an acronym. The most common acronyms being H.A.G.S (Have A Great Summer) or S.Y.NY. (See You Next Year) both these messages are impersonal, and chances are looking back you may not even remember what these stand for. Yearbooks are memorable, and people want to reflect back on their high school years.
Finally, after getting stuck on the Mexican border and making a long journey to WHB, yearbooks were delivered Wednesday, June 12th, pick them up in the Library. Happy Signing.
