Graduation in the Time of Corona

Image Courtesy of cnn.com

By ISABELLE FITZGIBBON ‘23

As Coronavirus continues to force people to stay home, schools are trying to find new ways to honor seniors through both virtual graduations and ceremonies, in addition to customized signs and gifts. Although schools are trying to make this time special for seniors, not all seniors feel supported and honored in their communities. To try to increase the level of support for the graduating seniors, families of seniors have hosted their own mini graduations and found smaller ways to celebrate. Even companies and celebrities have produced special events to honor the graduating seniors. 

While schools cannot give seniors the graduation experience that they expected, schools are trying to find other ways to honor seniors. Many schools have given graduates signs to put in their yards, and while some students appreciate the gesture, others are not as happy. Students have taken to social media to mock the signs, joking that because of the signs, they no longer wish that they had an in person graduation. 

Families of graduates have also tried to honor seniors. Some seniors have had virtual parties with family and friends while others have had a mock graduation ceremony with immediate family. Some families have even tried to replicate the experience of walking across a stage to receive a diploma within their homes. While families are doing what they can to support and honor graduates, it can be difficult to replicate the traditions of an in person graduation ceremony.

Along with school communities and families, companies and celebrities have done their part in honoring seniors. Krispy Kreme gave out free donuts to high school and college graduates on Tuesday, May 19. Graduates were given a dozen donuts with 2020 spelled out in each row. This event proved to be extremely popular as lines for Krispy Kreme stretched for miles at some locations. Additionally, the XQ Institute and the Lebron James Family Foundation hosted a virtual graduation. Speakers included Former President Barack Obama, Lebron James, and Malala Yousafzai among others. The speech aimed to inspire and motivate the class of 2020 as the students enter a new stage in their lives. 

While communities are trying to create a meaningful graduation experience, the remote setting is not ideal. Cori DeLano ‘20 expressed that she does not feel that Milton has done a good job in supporting and honoring the class of 2020. She also shared that, “Coach Swain’s initiative in driving out to see all of her senior players was really inspiring to see. [She would] like to see more similar and meaningful outreaches.” Overall, DeLano expressed that family and friends have been a great source of support, but Milton has not provided the support that would be expected.

Mary Howley ‘20 feels that Milton has done their best to support and honor the graduates. However, she expressed that while Milton has made an attempt to maintain traditions, the plans are not very meaningful. Howley believes that the community is one of the most important aspects of the traditions. While she is disappointed to be missing out on the community aspect of these traditions, Howley expressed gratitude for everything that family and friends have been doing to support and honor her.

Josie Wilson ‘15 is graduating from Yale College this year. She feels that Yale has been supportive, but she has missed out on many important traditions and events due to the given circumstances. While Wilson has been able to participate in virtual versions of some events, she expressed that the events were not very meaningful. However, Wilson has appreciated the support of her school, her friends, and her family. She shared that “[she is] grateful to [her] family and friends for taking the time to help [her] celebrate this milestone, albeit virtually.”

Although the circumstances are less than ideal, communities are finding new ways to celebrate graduates. Schools are trying to create a unique and meaningful experience for graduates, but the limitations are making it difficult. Despite the disappointing situation, DeLano states, “I think it’s sad but life goes on. We can take it in stride or decide to not do anything about it. I prefer opting for the former.” While it is easy to get caught up in disappointment, it is better to enjoy the celebrations that are taking place and focus on what is ahead.