As the Class of 2024 gears up for graduation, students nationwide find themselves grappling with a collegiate journey unlike any other. From the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic to widespread protests and the absence of key milestones, their time in college has been far from ordinary.
Grant Oh, a student at the University of Southern California (USC), vividly recounts the tumultuous nature of his college experience. With the outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020, Oh’s academic path was riddled with missed opportunities and disrupted traditions.
From forfeiting prom and high school graduation to transitioning to college amidst a global health crisis, he navigated virtual classrooms and social distancing measures.
Now, as Oh prepares to bid farewell to college life, another pivotal moment slips through his fingers as USC cancels its main commencement ceremony. The cancellation, prompted by security concerns amid protests, adds to the string of missed milestones for Oh and his peers.
However, amidst the disappointment of these lost moments, Oh and many others find themselves grappling with the weight of world events. From the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic to protests against racial injustice and conflicts overseas, students confront a world in turmoil.
Psychologist Jean Twenge of San Diego State University sheds light on the additional pressures faced by Generation Z, including heightened rates of anxiety and depression exacerbated by the pervasive influence of social media. Despite these challenges, students rally together, participating in protests and championing their beliefs on campuses nationwide.
The cancellation of graduation ceremonies elicits frustration and sorrow from students like Maurielle McGarvey, who describe the experience as “heartbreaking.” McGarvey, a fellow student at USC, voices discontent with the university’s handling of the situation, underscoring the impact of these cancellations on her class’s sense of closure and tradition.
Nevertheless, students remain steadfast in their resolve, drawing strength from their shared experiences and a collective determination to enact positive change. Sarah Dawley, a senior at the University of Minnesota, reflects on the trials of the past year while embracing the prospect of growth and activism.
As the Class of 2024 prepares to venture into the next phase of their lives, they carry with them a collegiate journey shaped by resilience and adversity. Though the road ahead may be uncertain, their shared trials have equipped them with the courage and conviction to confront tomorrow’s challenges head-on.