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college graduate
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2021-05-20
Providence College Class of 2021 Graduation
This photograph was taken by one of the photographers at the commencement ceremony for the Providence College Class of 2021 when I was being announced as receiving the honor of highest in academic rank (valedictorian) for my class. Providence had held its graduations at the Dunkin Donuts Center downtown for the past several decades, but COVID-19 restrictions made that impossible for the Class of 2021. Instead, the College opted to have commencement on campus, holding it at Hendricken Field. Each student was only allowed up to two guests. My parents and brother all graduated from Providence College, so it was difficult knowing that the pandemic prevented me from being part of the same traditions that they got to experience as seniors, such as Senior Ring Weekend. My brother had graduated just two years earlier, so I knew what being a senior was "supposed" to be like, but did not get to experience it. However, having graduation on campus was truly a blessing and a unique experience. I was able to get an extra ticket so that my mom, dad, and brother could all be there to see me receive my degree, and my grandmother was able to watch the livestream from her home. After a challenging year full of disappointment and distance, the Class of 2021 was graced with the chance to celebrate our achievements together. -
2020-05-27
This Was Suppose to be the Year
As everyone who enters college awaits the day to hear their name called and receive their diploma as recognition to the monumental achievement you've completed. That would've been me, June 14, 2020 at 8:00A.M prepared for the day, gown ironed cap decorated and nerves everyone. However, COVID-19 had other plans. Quarantined, social distancing, cancellation of my achievement robbing me of the acknowledgement myself and thousands of others deserved. But has emotions fly high about not being able to have the commencement I've dreamed of, it also put a hold on any future endeavors I had. As far as careers after graduation, yes I had jobs lined up after graduation awaiting going into the office and starting a new chapter of my life. To then receive, "due to the pandemic we are no longer hiring at the moment and the hiring process will reach out to you again at a better state for the company" after getting through the rounds of interviews and questionnaires. This pandemic has not only halted my 2020 goals and future endeavors but has scarred me internally beyond any content. I've chose to speak my truth as there are many graduates all over dealing with the struggle of whether our hard-work has benefited us enough and has been defeated from this global pandemic.