Commencement Ceremony: What Students Really Think

David

3 min read

Post on May 15, 2025

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Commencement Ceremony: What Students Really Think – Beyond the Pomp and Circumstance

The tassel's turned, the caps are tossed, and another year's graduating class has officially entered the "real world." But beyond the celebratory photos and heartfelt speeches, what are students really thinking during their commencement ceremony? We delved into the experiences and opinions of recent graduates to uncover the truth behind the pomp and circumstance.

This year's ceremonies saw a mixed bag of emotions, from overwhelming pride to quiet anxiety. While the traditional aspects remain important, our research reveals a shift in student perspectives, highlighting both the cherished traditions and the areas ripe for change.

The Highlights: What Graduates Loved

• The Sense of Accomplishment: Overwhelmingly, graduates cited the feeling of accomplishment as the most significant positive aspect. Years of hard work, late nights, and challenging exams culminated in this single moment, a powerful sense of achievement shared by all. This feeling transcended individual academic performance, creating a powerful collective experience.

• Celebrating with Loved Ones: The opportunity to share this milestone with family and friends proved invaluable. Many graduates highlighted the emotional support and shared joy as key elements contributing to a positive experience. The presence of supportive loved ones significantly amplified the celebratory atmosphere.

• Inspirational Speakers (Sometimes!): While not universally praised, a well-chosen commencement speaker could truly elevate the ceremony. Students appreciated speakers who offered relatable stories, practical advice, or a genuinely inspiring message, rather than generic platitudes. Finding the right balance between inspiration and brevity is key.

The Lowlights: Areas for Improvement

• Lengthy Ceremonies: A common complaint echoed across various campuses was the excessive length of ceremonies. Students felt that overly long speeches and repetitive formalities detracted from the overall experience, leading to restlessness and even boredom. Brevity and a focus on key moments are crucial.

• Generic Speeches: Many graduates expressed disappointment with generic and uninspired commencement addresses. Students crave authenticity and relatability, yearning for speeches that address their unique challenges and aspirations. More personalized and less formulaic speeches would resonate better.

• Lack of Inclusivity: Concerns were raised regarding the lack of inclusivity in some ceremonies. Students advocated for greater representation and recognition of diverse backgrounds and experiences within the program. Ensuring that all students feel seen and valued is paramount.

Looking Ahead: Suggestions for a Better Commencement Experience

Commencement ceremonies are a significant milestone, deserving of thoughtful planning and execution. Based on our findings, we propose the following improvements:

• Shorter, More Focused Ceremonies: Prioritizing concise speeches and streamlined formalities would significantly enhance the student experience.
• Relevant and Inspiring Speakers: Selecting speakers who can offer relatable stories and practical advice will foster a deeper connection with graduates.
• Inclusive Programming: Ensuring diverse representation and recognition of various student backgrounds will make the event more meaningful for everyone.
• Interactive Elements: Incorporating interactive elements, such as student video tributes or musical performances, can add a unique and engaging touch.

Commencement ceremonies mark not just an end, but a beginning. By understanding and addressing student perspectives, we can create memorable and meaningful celebrations that truly honor the achievements of graduating classes for years to come. What are your thoughts on the ideal commencement ceremony? Share your experiences in the comments below!