Sri Haritha Deevi, Student Life Editor
Commencement ceremony of December 2023. Photo//UMDearborn page on Instagram
Graduation season is here, which means a paradox of emotions! It brings a bittersweet sadness as students prepare to leave behind a place that has been their sanctuary of growth, self-discovery, and friendship. University life is not just about academics. It’s where countless memories are made - late-night study marathons, casual cafeteria chats, and shared laughter that carried them through tough times. Saying goodbye to this chapter can feel like leaving a piece of their heart behind.
Yet, this farewell is accompanied by a growing excitement for what lies ahead. The world beyond university offers fresh opportunities, challenges, and milestones. For many, it’s the start of their professional journey or the realization of long-nurtured dreams. Graduation symbolizes a transition - a bridge between the comfort of familiarity and the thrill of venturing into the unknown. These mixed emotions, while complex, make this milestone profoundly meaningful.
Graduation day itself is more than just a celebration of academic success - it’s a deeply personal triumph. For some, it’s a historic milestone as they become the first in their family to graduate, carrying with them the aspirations and sacrifices of generations. Their degrees represent more than academic achievement - they are symbols of perseverance, resilience, and dreams realized.
For others, the joy comes from overcoming personal struggles - balancing responsibilities, navigating financial constraints, or staying strong during life’s adversities. Each graduate’s journey is unique, and the pride reflected in their smiles is shared by those who supported them along the way.
This day also serves as a moment of reflection. Students graduating with honors or accolades take pride in the recognition of their dedication and excellence. Their achievements inspire others and set benchmarks for the next generation of students. Equally inspiring, are the stories of those who have triumphed over immense challenges to reach this point. These graduates demonstrate the resilience of the human spirit, proving that success is not only about accolades but also about courage and determination.
Even after the caps are tossed and the degrees are framed, the university remains an indelible part of its graduates’ lives. It’s more than just a place where they studied - it’s where they found mentors who guided them, friends who became family, and experiences that shaped their perspectives. Many alumni find themselves drawn back to campus, revisiting the classrooms and corridors where their journeys began, or reconnecting with professors who encouraged them to dream bigger and think deeper.
In this sense, the university becomes a second home - a place graduates can always return to for advice, support, and a sense of belonging. Leaving is never truly goodbye, it’s more like “See you later!” The bonds formed and the lessons learned remain an integral part of their identity, grounding them as they step into the future.
Graduation is not the end of the university connection - it’s the start of a new relationship. As alumni, graduates have the opportunity to give back to the institution that shaped their journey. Whether it be by mentoring current students, contributing to university initiatives, or staying active in alumni networks, they can play a vital role in fostering the same enriching experiences for others.
Staying connected to the university enriches both the graduates and their alma mater. The relationships built during their time on campus - be it with peers, professors, or fellow alumni - often evolve into professional collaborations, lifelong friendships, and mutual support. Becoming a resourceful alumnus is a responsibility - it’s a way of ensuring that the university continues to thrive and transform lives for generations to come.
To every graduate walking across the stage this semester, take a moment to soak it all in - this is your time to shine! You’ve conquered the late-night cram sessions, the caffeine-fueled marathons, and the group projects that tested your patience. You’ve weathered deadlines, doubts, and detours, and here you are, holding the reward of your perseverance.
As you step into this exciting new chapter, remember:
The world is your oyster and you’re the pearl in it!
Toss your cap high, but keep your dreams higher!
And never forget - no matter where life takes you, you will always have Wi-Fi access (well, almost) at your university!
Here’s to the class of 2024: May your futures be as bright as your shining graduation gowns and your journeys as bold as your ambitions. Go forth and conquer, because you’ve got this! 🎓✨
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