I received some somewhat disheartening news this week, I had hoped to finish up with school by the 4th of July. However, a capstone course I'm required to take is not offered until the end of summer. I had hoped to sneak in the course in the Spring when it was offered in Fond du Lac; unfortunately I will be completing the final course required to take the capstone course simultaneously-so they will not let me take the course as I had hoped. In the big picture another month of classes really is nothing to write home about.
I've been asked by many if I plan on participating in the graduating ceremony, and up until recently I hadn't really considered it. Marian now only offers one ceremony, but they will allow students who have up to 6 credits to finish, to walk in the May ceremony. My reasoning for not participating would be, what's the point of dragging my kids to see me walk, only to watch me continue taking classes through the summer? Seems somewhat pointless to them, and for me anti-climactic.
But then I think back to an email I received from my math prof while I was going to Moraine Park Technical College, she took the time out of her day to send me an email telling me that she'd hoped I would participate in the graduation ceremony, and take some time to reflect on what I've accomplished. At the time I was in her class, I entered her class literally 1 week post-childbirth in an effort to finish my associates degree. When I completed her class, she sent me this email and it's stuck in my mind. I didn't participate in the ceremony, I figured why throw one more event into the schedule, one more day to find a sitter, etc.
I'm starting to think maybe I should, after all this is my accomplishment and one of the few things in life I can call my very own. Those of you who obtained degrees long after high school, what is your feedback? Did you walk, if not-do you wish you would have? Is it all just ceremonial?
3 comments:
Hi Teri! I took a job one week before my college graduation and by doing so missed the opportunity to attend the ceremony. At the time it was not big deal, but now several years later I really wish I would have taken the time to celebrate and enjoy it. Just my two cents. It is a big deal! And this is something that you did for yourself! You made it through, you accomplished your goals...celebrate! :)
I think they'll retain the memory of you walking much longer than they will retain the memory of you taking that extra class.
I think its all just ceremonial, BUT its your chance for recognition from your educators, your family, and yourself for all that you've done! I had a December graduation which isn't as big or festive as the May graduations--so for me, it was more about celebrating with my friends who also graduated, my family, my roomates who didn't graduate but were a part of my schooling. Gabe didn't go to his and I dont' think he regretted not going at all...he had what he wanted, the degree. So its really a personal choice. But I like what Tara said and the kids will probably find it exciting and an excuse to go out to eat or have a get together after...celebration!
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