South Gate High Outgoing Seniors Hustled For Last Minute Tickets

Last night, South Gate High School’s Class of 2012 received their graduating diplomas, along with the pride and adoration of their family. Excitement was evident among the 670 students that were graduating, but so were concerns over tickets for the graduation ceremony.

Claudia Corona, 18, was one of several students waiting for extra tickets outside of the Home Depot Center in Carson.

“I’m waiting for a friend to get here,” admitted Corona, who wanted her aunt to attend.t"They have one extra ticket,

The outgoing seniors were given eight free tickets, and were allowed to purchase up to two extra tickets, with an additional $10 per ticket.

“And even still not all of my family is able to come because of tickets,” affirmed Corona, who was not able to get the extra ticket she was waiting for.

The extra expense needed for extra tickets can also be too much for some families. This is an amount that gets even higher on graduation day. Something that was evident when a street vendor was trying to sell one ticket for $30.

Graduating senior Jessica Lozano, 17, was able to get al ofl her family to attend with the 8 tickets provided. However, she considered herself lucky, and felt that more tickets should be given out.

“Some people have bigger families and can't afford to pay the extra money,” said Lozano, who is close friends with Corona and accompanied her while she waited for the extra ticket. “They should be allowed to ask for a few more free tickets."

As the last call for the graduates to enter the stadium was made, both of the young women slowly walked toward the gate.

Corona was happy to graduate despite not being able to share the experience with her aunt.

“I'm excited to graduate,” said Corona, who will be attending California State University – Long Beach. “It's taking the next step into adulthood.” 

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