Plus: I’m Appalled at this Change in College Graduation Ceremonies
As graduation season approaches, many soon-to-be graduates are eagerly anticipating their college commencement ceremonies. This momentous occasion marks the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice. It is a time for students to celebrate their achievements, bid farewell to their alma mater, and look towards a bright future ahead. However, as I recently learned, some universities are making changes to their traditional graduation ceremonies, and I must say, I am appalled.
Gone are the days of traditional graduation ceremonies where students walk across the stage, receive their diploma, and toss their caps in the air with joy and pride. Instead, some universities are opting for a more modern and impersonal approach, where students simply collect their diplomas in a drive-thru fashion. This change not only diminishes the significance of the moment, but it also takes away from the overall experience and memories of the special day.
As a recent graduate myself, I understand the importance of a traditional graduation ceremony. It is a rite of passage that symbolizes the completion of an important chapter in our lives and the beginning of a new one. It is a time for us to reflect on our journey, celebrate our accomplishments, and thank those who have supported us along the way. But with the new changes, the ceremony becomes nothing more than a formality, devoid of emotion and meaning.
One of the main reasons for this change is the current pandemic and the need for social distancing. While I can sympathize with the safety concerns, I believe there are better alternatives than simply reducing the ceremony to a drive-thru event. Virtual ceremonies or smaller, socially distanced ceremonies would still allow for a more personal and memorable experience for students. I understand that these options may require more effort and resources, but the importance of a proper graduation ceremony cannot be understated.
Moreover, the traditional graduation ceremony is not just about the students, but also about their families and loved ones. It is a time for them to witness their loved ones’ achievements and share in the joy and pride of the moment. By limiting the ceremony to a drive-thru, families and friends are robbed of the opportunity to participate in this significant event and create cherished memories.
Additionally, graduation ceremonies serve as a reminder of the value of education and the importance of higher learning. By reducing the ceremony to a mere formality, universities are sending the message that the accomplishment of obtaining a college degree is not worthy of a proper celebration. This undermines the hard work and dedication that students have put into their studies and diminishes the significance of the degree itself.
Universities must understand that the graduation ceremony is a vital part of the college experience. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students to be recognized and celebrated for their achievements. Taking away this experience is not only unfair to the students but also a disservice to the entire academic community.
I urge universities to reconsider their decision to change the traditional graduation ceremony. I implore them to find alternative solutions that will allow students to have a meaningful and memorable experience while adhering to health and safety guidelines. We must not let a global pandemic take away the joy and significance of this milestone in our lives.
To all the soon-to-be graduates, I understand your disappointment and frustration at this change in graduation ceremonies. But do not let it dampen your spirit and overshadow your accomplishments. You have worked hard, and nothing can diminish the value of your degree and the mark you will leave on the world.
In conclusion, I am appalled at the change in college graduation ceremonies. We must not let the pandemic diminish the importance of this significant milestone in our lives. Let us continue to advocate for a proper and meaningful ceremony, one that we can look back on with pride and joy for years to come. Congratulations to all the graduates, and may your future be filled with success and happiness. Plus, we will always remember our traditional graduation ceremonies with fondness and pride.
