College and University Blog

Attending Graduation as a Top Priority

I attended my first graduate commencement yesterday at Northern Arizona University and it was everything that I had dreamed of and more. From the first moment I stepped into the Skydome in my cap and gown, to the minute I stepped into my car to leave commencement, it was a true treat that honored the work that I had invested in my education.

As clear as it was to me that it was the right thing to do yesterday, it was also clear to me that I had made the right choice when I decided to forego attending my last graduation. I had opted out in 2005 for my Master of Arts degree because I was more than 2000 miles away from my college in the East Coast, I didn’t know any of my classmates, and even if I could swing a way to travel back East, my family wouldn’t be there.

However, this graduation was completely different. It meant the world to me, and I wouldn’t have missed it for the world. There were many things that made it memorable for me, and your graduation will be just as memorable. Before passing on attending your graduation, consider these points …

  • It is a way to acknowledge the work that you have done in front of the school and faculty.
  • It is a wonderful way to get closure on your experience shared with your classmates and/or cohort.
  • Create memories for yourself and your family that will last for years to come.
  • You will surely be inspired to get inspired to pursue another degree!