Commencement

Commencement – the graduation ceremony that everyone knows about from countless American movies. Academic gowns, caps being thrown in the air – a little ceremonial, a little cheesy. This event marked the end of my master’s degree. 

To ensure that everything goes smoothly on the big day, the university organized a rehearsal scavenger hunt beforehand. During this practice, we, the graduating class, went through all the key moments of the upcoming day. We learned how to wear the gown, how to walk across the stage to receive our diplomas, which hands we have to shake, and where the photographer would be positioned. A very fun event and a great opportunity to reconnect with some people.

As is often the case with such events, the day itself is exhausting. We started at 7:30 a.m. with a group breakfast, during which everyone’s gown was checked to ensure it was worn correctly. Some of my fellow classmates were also chosen to give short speeches to the graduates.

The university-wide Commencement began at 9:00 a.m. Afterward, each department held smaller ceremonies and handed out the diplomas. The commencement ceremony of the Fletcher School began at 11:30 a.m. and lasted about two hours (program). Between the university-wide and the Fletcher commencement, we graduates had to line up sorted by program and in alphabetical order, which took a while. It was partially so windy that my cap nearly flew away.

After the formal procession into the tent, several speeches were given. Then it was finally time for us to receive our diplomas. The moment everyone was waiting for! One by one, we were called to walk across the stage, shake the designated three pairs of hands, and take two pictures. Then the official part was over. Fun fact: the diploma folder doesn’t contain the certificate – it will be sent to us by the registrar’s office at a later point in time, probably to prevent it from being lost or damaged during the festivities.

Following the Fletcher ceremony, there were numerous opportunities for pictures and to say goodbye to fellow students and professors. I made good use of that, but to be honest, I was also glad when I could finally celebrate my graduation more quietly with my family. To conclude the day, we went out for dinner in Boston, ending this beautiful but long day on a relaxed note.

It was a very memorable day for me, marking both the end of my master’s studies and another milestone in my life. I am happy for being brave enough and making the decision to move abroad for my master’s degree, and haven’t regretted this decision. The past two years have provided me with many new memories and experiences. I learned a lot – not only in my lectures, but also about the world and myself. However, this reflection deserves a blog post of its own.