Mercury,
How much would it cost? I knew someone who had her name legally changed (first AND last) just in time for her college graduation and I THINK it cost fifty dollars. Heck, I’d help you take up a collection for a new surname so you’re not stuck with an icky one on your diploma.
Seriously, I could start you off with ten bucks or so. Contact me at pfm@cwru.edu .
Patty “Damn, I Love My Name” Marvel
When I was discussing marriage, I asked if my spouse would dislike my keeping my surname (no); I asked if he would prefer I used his name (might be nice to have the same name); I asked if he would consider using my name (no).
So no way in hell would I change my name.
If he needs me to change my name to demonstrate committment, he’s not paying attention.
When two hypenated surnames marry, they pick and choose for the kids; live with it.
I never saw any good (to me) reason to change my name, just because I married. I have no phobia about my marriage not lasting at all, I’m in it for the long haul. I just saw no compelling reason to bother to change, just as my husband saw no compelling reason to change his surname to mine.
We did consider briefly both changing our names to a new made-up surname, but ditched it immediately, because I still couldn’t think up a good enough reason to change (a joint name does not mean greater commitment) and he didn’t like my cheesy name suggestions. 