Walking For Graduation

By Alicia Smith

Graduating is an emotional time for many people, those who have seen the graduate stumble and struggle to get through, those who did the stumbling and struggling. Although this is generally a happy time and a time for celebration, many people will feel lost or defeated.

The Oakland Post mentions in an article about graduating that: “Graduating can be an intense life milestone, but how exciting it is! Live it all, all the emotions, opportunities and moments. Afraid or excited, uncertain or not, be open to living it all!”

I am unsure on how many people will be graduating this coming December, however I know I am one of them. With that I am prompted with a question: do I or don’t I walk the stage in the spring? For me, I do not think I will. I will likely be working by that time and will likely have to request off work and go through the whole process through the school to get the cap and gown. For me, it just does not sound worth it. However, I know it would mean the world to my family. I am sure some of the December graduates are thinking the same thing.

When I asked someone what they would do they said, “I’d walk the stage, and get pictures for my family. Who knows if that chance will come again.” After listening to them say that, I started to change my mind. It is perfectly fine to be indecisive and change your mind later on– so long as it is not too late.

Walking the stage is likely the biggest milestone and trademark of graduating. Which makes the decision to walk or not to walk a big deal for some graduates. For some people, it will be their only opportunity to do so; others may move on to a four year school and choose to walk there instead or walk both.

For those who graduate in the spring it may seem like a “no-brainer” just walk for graduation because, well, why not. Those who graduate in the winter, however, have to decide if they want to wait until the spring to walk or not walk at all. It makes me wonder why there is no winter graduation ceremony. Likely, financial, traditional, or simplicity type of purpose.

If someone were to reflect back on their college experience, I feel like their graduation ritual would be the first thing to come to mind as it is the last thing one does as a college student. When a few people were asked about their past experiences, three out of five mentioned their graduation.

In the end, everything to do with one’s graduation is up to the graduate. Whether they want to have a huge celebration, or make tacos while they wait for their diploma in the mail. Either way, make that occasion memorable for yourself first and foremost.