In the spring of 2020, when the world faced uncertainty, graduates worldwide found themselves navigating uncharted territory. As the academic year nears its end, the class of 2020 prepares to graduate once again, but this time it will not be during a global pandemic. 

For many graduates, this moment marks the first time they will experience a traditional, in-person commencement. Four years after their virtual graduation ceremonies, students are finally getting the chance to experience the exciting milestone of walking across the stage in front of family and friends, fitted with a cap and gown. 

After years of anticipation and delay, the opportunity to participate in an in-person graduation ceremony seems nerve wracking to some. “It feels like we are all about to finally get the celebration and recognition we deserve. I’ve almost started crying a few times this month just thinking about it. I am so excited to walk across a real stage with real people,” says Sterling Craig, a senior liberal studies major. For the class of 2020, this graduation is not just a ceremony, but a testament to their perseverance. 

Covid-19 brought unprecedented times that 2020 graduates can’t help but reminisce about, “It was sad not being able to spend those last moments with everyone. I feel like missing prom and all those last memories with my senior class was hard to deal with, which is why it makes this graduation so special,” says Rachel Rodriguez, a senior kinesiology major. As graduating seniors experience their last few weeks as a college student, gearing up for graduation seems to be on the forefront of many minds. hHaving experienced a virtual graduation, the class of 2020 is finally experiencing the traditional rite of passage they once missed. “I’m just glad we will have a normal graduation and am very excited to experience it,” adds Rodriguez. 

Graduating environmental science major Bryan Peeso shares his highschool graduation experience, “There was no grad night and I had a modified drive-through ceremony, it all felt really weird. I tried to make the most of it at the time, but looking back on it now, I’m even more excited to have a normal graduation.” After years of anticipating high school graduation, just for it to be taken away a few months before, 2020 grads have a real appreciation for their college commencement. 

Despite any possible nerves about walking across the stage, 2020 graduates feel accomplished and full of pride as they prepare to receive their diplomas in person.