The Class of 2020 Throws a Curveball: A Graduation Like No Other
Graduation season is always an emotional time, but for the Class of 2020, it's been a rollercoaster of feelings. The global pandemic has thrown a curveball at their plans, but these resilient graduates are finding innovative ways to celebrate their achievements. Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and class of 2020 throws.
A Virtual Commencement: The New Normal
Commencement speeches, mortarboards tossed high, and hugs shared with proud family members - these are the images that usually come to mind when we think of graduation. But for the Class of 2020, the scene is quite different. Virtual commencements have become the new normal, with graduates tuning in from their bedrooms, dressed in caps and gowns, to watch speeches streamed online.
Dr. Anthony Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, delivered a commencement address to graduates of the Emerson College Class of 2020. He urged them to "be ready to adapt, to be flexible, and to be able to change some priorities and goals." These words resonate deeply with this class, who have had to adapt to a world turned upside down.
Drive-By Graduations: A New Kind of Celebration
While virtual commencements provide a sense of closure, many schools have also organized drive-by graduations to allow graduates to celebrate in person, while maintaining social distancing. In these events, graduates drive through their school's campus, picking up their diplomas and posing for photos.
The University of Alabama held a drive-through graduation, with graduates picking up their diplomas in a processional line, complete with a live brass band playing "Pomp and Circumstance". It was a unique celebration, but one that allowed these graduates to feel a sense of accomplishment and closure.
The Class of 2020: Resilient and Resourceful
The Class of 2020 has had to navigate uncharted waters, with job prospects uncertain and future plans up in the air. But they're not letting it dampen their spirits. Instead, they're finding creative ways to celebrate and connect.
Graduates from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill organized a virtual commencement party, complete with a DJ, photo booth, and even a "yearbook" where graduates could leave messages for each other. It was a testament to their resilience and resourcefulness, turning a challenging situation into a unique opportunity to connect.
Looking Ahead: The Future is Uncertain, but Bright
As the Class of 2020 looks ahead, the future may seem uncertain. But they've already proven their ability to adapt and innovate. They've thrown a curveball at the traditional graduation experience, and come out stronger for it.
Graduates from the Class of 2020 are not just survivors, they're pioneers. They've shown us that even in the face of adversity, we can still celebrate our achievements and look towards the future with hope and optimism.
So here's to the Class of 2020, the curveball class. You've thrown us a challenge, but you've also shown us your strength, your resilience, and your ability to adapt. We can't wait to see what you do next.