Students recognized for their leadership, academics and athleticism were asked to stand. They were applauded for their hard work and, yes, they deserved to be recognized. But again, why do it publicly? Students who sit still risk feeling like crap. Yes, awards ceremonies are meant to reward hard-working students, but in a way they also tell those who are sitting that "yes, you are graduating, but those who are standing are actually leaving ". Okay, I sound bitter. But I’m not, I promise (okay, maybe a little…). I'm just trying to draw attention to the hierarchical system that we often forget once we finish high school. These high school traditions are just a few that lay the foundation for a superior versus inferior relationship between peers. They may have the good intention of recognizing their achievements, but it also requires students to consider themselves below or above others. Hierarchy, like bullying, is a factor that contributes to low self-esteem among our young people and deserves equal treatment.