As the end of the Spring semester comes to a close, many graduates were looking forward to walking down the stage to receive their diploma.
Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, the seniors at all of Florida’s state universities will not get their traditional commencement ceremony.
Luckily, Florida International University, launched an initiative for their seniors to graduate virtually.
“Basically, students were invited on to a portal. They were each sent a unique link where they could upload they’re photo, video, and also a personal message. On May 8th, the ceremonies will play out, we’ll have them posted on our website. It’ll start at 10 A.M., they can watch at any time that they want. In the ceremony it will be broken up by the nine colleges that we have. The ceremony will play out, we’ll have the alma mater, we’ll have the president’s remarks, the dean’s remarks, and all of the student’s slideshows. Each slideshow will contain their name, their degree, their quote, photo, and video,” said Melanie Rodriguez, special events manager at FIU.
Even though graduation has been postponed for a later date, Chelsea Perez, a graduating senior is participating in the virtual graduation.
“I feel we should be taking advantage of all these ceremonies that they’re giving us just because of this pandemic. It shouldn’t take the spotlight away from us because it is supposed to be a special moment for us to celebrate this achievement,” said Perez.
These FIU seniors tell their fellow graduating class to not get discouraged during this difficult time
“It’s good to look at things from a new perspective and kind of make light of this situation. Obviously, no one expected us where we are now. Look at it as a blessing, here to help you grow, and transform you into a new person. We’re in quarantine, find a new hobby, do something new, elevate yourself, and build all these skills so that when we’re out of it, you can bounce back so much stronger then you were before,” said Michelle Scheer, FIU senior.
FIU’s virtual commencement will be on May 8th.
And if you’re graduating this semester, Oprah Winfrey can be your speaker. Facebook is hosting a virtual graduation ceremony where Oprah will speak alongside actress Jennifer Garner, Simone Biles and more to be announced.
Catch the ceremony live on May 15 at 11 a.m. Congrats to the class of 2020!
