The essence of love is in the air in the lovely month of February. At the mention of the month, thoughts of Valentine’s Day come to mind.

Some people go to extensive lengths to make the day special, while others treat it just like every other day. At the height of their teenage years, Marlow High School students are no exception.

To see what today’s teens are doing for the special day, a survey was given to 76 students.

Of those surveyed, 47% of students said that they had plans with their significant other, while 53% said they did not.

Although the poll is close, many students responded negatively toward the question, especially if they were single.

Half of those surveyed said that they like Valentine’s Day.

“I celebrate it and love all the love in the air. I wish every day was like Valentine’s Day.”

–Gigi Wall

Senior Anthony Green agrees that it is an important holiday.

“I think Valentine’s Day is good because it makes people feel loved,” Nelson said.

Of those polled, 33 percent of students said that they liked to give/receive chocolate the most. 26 percent said that they liked to give/receive candy the most.

According to a study by CNN, it is said that approximately $2 billion are spent on chocolate and candy each year in the United States.

Of those evaluated, 41% said that they liked to give/receive cards, flowers or stuffed animals the most.

Studies by CNN also show that about two billion dollars will also be spent on flowers, cards and stuffed animals.

While many students said they enjoy traditional Valentine’s presents, some said they prefer the thought behind the gift.

“Homemade things are the cutest! My boyfriend doesn’t have to buy me something expensive as long what he gets me comes from the heart,” junior Yvette Ball said.

Senior Morgan Ford said she is looking forward to having her boyfriend cook dinner for her.

“After dinner we are going to watch a movie, and then I am hoping for something amazing,” Ford said.

Not everyone is a fan of the annual ritual.

“I believe it is overrated and a good way to waste money,” junior Kyle Alexander said.

Clearly, Valentine’s Day is a widely celebrated, ignored or loathed holiday all depending on the individual.

Melissa Valencia

MHS exPRESS writer