St. Peter Area Graduation 2024

CONGR ATULATIONS

Gustavus applauds your hard work and dedication.

Emily Elizabeth Acevedo

Parents: Juan and Janie Acevedo Isaac Alger Parents: Steve and Chelsea Alger Future plans: Attend Gustavus Adolphus College to study business management and play football

Camron Beckman Parents: Seth & Chelsea Beckman; Sarah Hoiland Future plans: Welding

Robert Berlanga Jr. Parents: Robert Berlanga & Cassie Frey Future plans: South Central College Mankato

Sebastyen Blaede Parents: Joe and Teri Finn Future plans: SCC for Machining

Gavin Bohmer

ST. PETER HIGH SCHOOL

Joshua Bosacker Parents: Brad and Angela Bosacker Future plans: University of Jamestown ND for exercise science

Anthony Coe Parents: Kevin and Lena Coe Future plans: Attend UW-Stevens Point for natural resources

Madison Braam Parents: Jason and Tabitha Braam Future plans: Going to University of Minnesota for elementary education

Alonna Conrad

Kaiden Brovold Parents: Jessica Gropel and Troy Brovold Future plans: Attending Augustana University, majoring in finance and accounting and playing golf

Cali Cross Parents: Brady and Heidi Selnes

Max Brown Parents: Jeffrey Brown and Monica Sorensen Future plans: Undecided

Braxon Dale Parents: Jordan and Heather Dale Future plans: Plans to attend the University of Portland

Sam Burnett Parents: Kyle and Nancy Burnett Future plans: Attending South Central College to study civil engineering technology

Cooper DeBlieck Parents: Erin and Chad DeBlieck Future plans: Attending South Dakota State University for construction management

Janelle Ceja Parent: Leticia Gutierrez Future plans: Minnesota school of barbering

Hannah Denzer Parents: Mark and Jen Denzer Future plans: Attend University of Minnesota Twin Cities while swimming for the Gophers

Ryan

Parents:

Future

Parents:

Future plans: Minnesota State University, Mankato for integrated engineering

Parents:

Engstrand

Future

Parents:

Future

Future

Future

Alex Domras Parents: Jeff & Erin Domras Future plans: Attend South Central College in the fall

Kailyn Embacher Parents: Brad Embacher and Jill Bacich

Future plans: Attending Minnesota State University Mankato for dental hygiene.

Domras

Mike & Ann Domras

plans: Attend Colorado School of Mines. Majoring in Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering

Donovon M. Emmers

Ian Dorow

Jonathan and Lisa Dorow

Ella Victoria Engstrand

Kelly Culbert & Erik

plans: Attend University of Minnesota-Duluth, majoring in biology on a pre-med track

Keira Lynn Dunn

Ginger Dunn and James Dunn

plans: Attending the University of Wisconsin-Madison studying pre-law/political science

Kali Erickson

Parents: Tim and Christy Erickson

plans: University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire for finance and accounting

Owen Dvorak

Parents: David and Codi Dvorak

plans: South Central College, Mankato

Cole Filand Parents: Julie and Trenity Filand

Future plans: University of Wisconsin-Stout to study engineering and play football

Allan Eberhart Parents: Ryan and Dawn Eberhart Future plans: Attending University of Minnesota Duluth to major in finance

Natalie Fodness Parent: Carrie Clemens Future plans: Attending South Central College for paramedics program

Nicholas Fodness Parent: Carrie Clemens Future plans: MNSU for business

Andrew Guth Parents: Stacey Peterson & Brian Guth Future plans: Working after graduation

Nora Fondie Parents: Todd and Jennifer Fondie Future plans: Attending Nova Academy to become an esthetician

Emmalyn Hastings Parent: Alicia Hastings Future plans: Winona State University for nursing

Ella Fritsch Parents: Robert Fritsch and Emily Wessel Future plans: University of Wisconsin-La Crosse for archeology

Dylan Hatlevig Parents: Kelsie and Jeremy Hatlevig Future plans: Majoring in business management and marketing

Luke Gilbertson Parents: Jeff & Heather Gilbertson Future plans: Attending University of Wisconsin, La Crosse majoring in elementary education

John Havemeier Parents: Les and Jonette Havemeier Future plans: Attending Hamline University

Marcus Graves Parents: Kevin and Kathryn Graves Future plans: Attending MNSU in fall for engineering

Haydin Heilman Parents: Abbie Miller and the late Tyler Heilman Future plans: Working

Kaeden Guida Parents: Alecia and Shaun Guida Future plans: Attending MNSU majoring in construction management and playing baseball

Izzy Hermel Parents: Sarah Hermel and Brad Worshek Future plans: South Central College for surgical tech

Corbin Herron Parents: Abby Martin & Pat Herron Future plans: Attending Western Washington University to study marketing & film and run track

Lauren Jacobsen

Ashlynn Hesse Parents: Jake and Denise Hesse Future plans: Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute, Minneapolis

Isabell Johnson Parents: Michael Johnson and Rachel Johnson Future plans: Attending UMD Duluth for business

Diego Hettig Parents: Michael and Yanile Hettig Future plans: Attending University of North Dakota

Mason James Johnson Parents: Brandi Machado & Jamison Johnson Future plans: Full-time construction employment and attending South Central College

Olivia Hollerich Parents: Robin and Ben Hollerich Future plans: Attending NDSU and major in biology wildlife ecology

Cole Junso Parents: TJ and Andrea Junso Future plans: Bethel University for elementary education, football, and track & field

Rhyan Holmgren Parents: Kyle and Staci Holmgren Future plans: Attending MNSU, majoring in exercise science and playing basketball

Maddie Kamm Parents: Terry and Amy Kamm Future plans: Attending Minnesota West College

Connor Hunt Parents: Matt & Kari Leonard Future plans: Attending Minnesota State University, Mankato

CeeJay King Parents: Sarah Kor and Shawn King Future plans: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities for theater arts

Laura Klatt Parents: Joseph and Kathleen Klatt Future plans: Attending St. Olaf to major in biology and continue diving

Gael Leon Future plans: MNSU or South Central College

Triston Krakow Parents: Jackie and Tracy Krakow

plans: Attending Ridgewater in Hutchinson to be a massage therapist

Henry Leonard Parents: Ben and Amy Leonard Future plans: Accounting at UW Eau Claire

Korey Lager Parents: Jesse and Carrie Lager Future plans: Undecided

Molly Leonard Parents: Ben & Amy Leonard Future plans: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities to study animal science

Riley Lager Parents: Jesse and Carrie Lager Future plans: Undecided

Libby Mace Parents: Jaime Mace and Angie Mace Future plans: Attending Waldorf University with a major in musical theater

Brenden Isaac Larson Parents: Kathy Nesheim-Larson and Karl Larson Future plans: Study music

Gavin Madden Parents: Lon and Jacki Madden Future plans: Gap year to travel the US, either with AmeriCorps or by working in a national park

Alex Lebedev Parents: Galina Marthaler and Al Christensen Future plans: South Central College

Blake Magelee Parents: Nick & Heather Magelee Future plans: Attending University of Nebraska-Lincoln majoring in PGA Golf Management Program

Abby Maloney

Sam Moelter Parents: Kurt and Candi Moelter Future plans: Attend the University of Minnesota to study sports management

Oscar Martinez Parents: Juana and Oscar Martinez

Kenzie Moline Parents: Rob and Gail Moline

plans: Attending Minnesota State University, Mankato for dietetics Alexandra Matarrese Parents: Anna Hulseberg-Matarrese and Craig Matarrese

Mya Moreau Parents: Eric and Angie Moreau Future plans: Something awesome

Max McConville Parent: Daniel McConville Future plans: Attending University of Maine

Anthony Nicolai Parents: James and Sherry Nicolai Future plans: DMACC Des Moines Area Community College, playing golf

NaKiye Mercado Parents: Alex Mercado and Jessalyn Mercado

plans: University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire for teaching/ coaching, playing football

Aryana Nicolay Parents: Denise Melendrez-Giese & Justin Nicolay Future plans: South Central Technical College on psychology transfer pathway

Ashlee Miller Parents: Calvin and Cindy Miller Future plans: Gap year, then photography at Ridgewater College

Natalie Nourie Parents: Casey and Patty Nourie Future plans: Planning to go to LSU to study dental

Baylee Nygard Parents: Donald Nygard & Amanda

Matthew Otterness Parents: Pete & Jenny Otterness Future plans: University of Minnesota Duluth to study civil engineering

Peyton Odland

Abdiel Parras Jr. Parents: Abdiel Parras and Laura Parras Future plans: South Central College to become an automotive technician

Ximena Olivares Parents: Diana and Gerardo Olivares Future plans: South Central College for nursing

Otoniel Parras Jr. Parents: Otoniel & Guadalupe Parras

Jack Olson Parents: Alaina and Kevin Olson Future plans: Alexandria Technical & Community College-peace officer

Payton Peterson Parents: Stacy Lang and Joe Peterson

Tate Olson Parents: Mande & Travis Olson Future plans: Attending Gustavus Adolphus College

Gavin Powers Parents: Jake and Lindsay Powers Future plans: Work to decide which of the trades I would like to specialize in, then school

Vincent Ortega-Nielsen

Ralph Lauren Puga Parent: Liliana Figueroa Future plans: Taking a gap year before pursuing a career as an electrician

Hats off to the

Isabel Putz Parents: Jamie & Cindy Putz Future plans: Mankato State University, Mankato to major in nursing

Zachary Salzwedel Parents: Chad and Kristi Salzwedel Future plans: Attending South Central College in the fall for the HVAC program

Leighton Robb Parents: Trevor & Jenni Robb Future plans: RCTC for the Facility and Service Technology Program and to wrestle

Isaac Schaffer Parents: Jill & Tony Schaffer Future plans: Aggregate technician

Logan Robb Parents: Josh and Amy Robb Future plans: Undecided

Parker Schmidt Parents: Adam Schmidt; Jamie & James Martens Future plans: Self-employment/ entrepreneur

Jose Romero Jr Parents: Maripsa and José Romero Future plans: Attending South Central College

Elliot Schrumpf Parents: Craig and Jessica Schrumpf Future plans: University of Utah for music education

Audrey Salcido

Drew Simonette Parents: Martin and Christina Future plans: Undecided

Rachel Anne Salfer Parents: Brian and Mandy Salfer Future plans: Creighton University majoring in business

Liana Snow Parents: Jeffery Snow and Leticia Snow Future plans: Planning to study film/ media and psychology at Boston University

Taylor Southard Parents: Tamra and Randy Southard Future plans: Army National Guard

Hayden Stensrud Parents: Adam and Jill Stensrud Future plans: Undecided

Stadick-Rylee Parents: Cory and Jessica Stadick Future plans: Attending Augustana University to major in nursing

Jacob Patricio Stone Parents: Pilar and Terry Stier; Pat Stone and Jolie Wohlers Future plans: ASU Arizona State University-Barrett, Honors College for aerospace engineering

Mackenzie Steinborn Parents: Steve and Teresa Steinborn Future plans: Attending Winona State University for radiography

Grace Timm

NOT PICTURED

Aisha Abdi

Haadi Ahmed

Yasmin Ahmed

Mercades Anchondo

Brynn Anderson

Jaiden Boswell

Uthman Boudjerda

Alicia Castillo

Anoushka Chelladurai

Abdirahman Daud

Chase DesMarais

Zachariah Dickie

Angela Domagala

Geneva Dvorak

Jackson Frederick

Carlos Garcia

Hayli Glass

Alexis Gonzales Boettcher

Tiernan Gransee

Osvaldo Guerra

Hailee Guth

Jason Haas

Christiaan Hajos

Addison Hanson

Zetta Haugen

Cody Hernandez

Brandon Hill

Kafiya Hussein

Nabiil Jamac

Fatima Juantos

Austin Kleinschmidt

Robert Lahn

Sienna Larson

Steven Leiferman

Donavyn Logan

Jewel Lopez

Nicholas Mahowald

Xiomara McKenzie

Daniela Mendez Ruiz

Abdikarim Mohamed

Kadan Mohamed

Isai Morales-Bocanegra

Griffin Morgan

Brandon Nguyen

Ava Niebuhr

Abdirahman Osman

David Pehrson

Riley Poulsen

Hunter Prins

Victor Romero

Riley Rubischko

Abduzahid Said Shayma Said

Nawal SayidNour

Xiora Sepulveda-Franco

Alexander Shelton

Ernesto Torres

Justin Van Houten

Kyra Vanerlinde

Ianna Williams

Jade Wilson

Hodan Yussuf

Shaley Zarbano

Leah Zarn

Daniel Zhang

Jamillet Aguiniga-Chacon Parents: Nancy Chacon and Bladimir Aguiniga Future plans: Attending college to major in Early Childhood Education

Alexia Rae Timmerman Parents: Ryan and Tasha Timmermam Future plans: Baker University in Baldwin City, Kansas City for nursing and to wrestle

Paul Warzecha Parents: Jerry Warzecha & Cyndi Warzecha Future plans: Traveling and simply enjoying life

Chloe Catherine Anderson Parents: Charlie and Kate Anderson Future plans: Going to Cosmetology school to get my Cosmetology license.

Grace Tollefson Parents: Carissa & Rich Delestre; Gary Tollefson Future plans: University of Colorado-Boulder to study psychology with minor in biology

Ayden Weston

Carter Lee Barto Parents: Kari Barto and Mike Guillemette Future plans: Attending Minnesota State University, Mankato - Law Enforcement

Maya VanGrootheest

Hailey Woods Parents: Shawn Woods and Sara Farstad Future plans: Attending MNSU

Aaliyah Jerry-Lynn Bauer Parents: Brenda Vraspir & Stuart Bauer

Callie Voeltz Parents: Kris & Chris Voeltz Future plans: Attending the University of Saint Thomas to major in biochemistry (pre-med)

Tate Yeager Parents: Trent and Traci Yeager Future plans: Attending MNSU for computer engineering

Brady Alan Bostic Parents: Colleen Davis and Alan Bostic Future plans: Undecided

Addison Voss Parents: Yvette and Mike Voss Future plans: Working

Eve Zimmerman Parents: Amber Weller and Adam Zimmerman Future plans: Attending University of Minnesota Morris to major in sports management and swim

Miah Kristine Buesing Parents: Nathan Buesing & Kristine Buesing Future plans: Sleep, eat, work, and sleep more

Paige Wachal Parents: Clint and Lindsay Wachal Future plans: Attending Augustana University to major in nursing

Cassandra Ann Connor

Parents: Bill & Rebecca Connor

Future plans: Attending South Dakota State University (SDSU) in the Fall.

Preston Paul Goettlicher

Parents: Kristi Krautkremer and Justin Goettlicher

Future plans: Kristi Krautkremer and Justin Goettlicher

Matthew Michael Holmquist

Parents: Lisa Holmquist and Matt Holmquist

Future plans: Minnesota State University, Mankato, majoring in Writing

Lilly Ray Croatt

Parents: Brian McVenes and Wendy Croatt Future plans: Taking a gap year and working towards getting my personal trainers license.

Emily Griffiths Parents: Abby & Kyle Mahler and Shawn & Denise Griffiths Future plans: Undecided

Hudson Robert Keup Parents: Kevin and Michelle Keup Future plans: Working

Dennis Warren Dent

Parents: Bryan Dent and Michelle Dent Future plans: Construction

Amelia Lee Haack

Parents: Kevin and Amber Haack Future plans: Going to college right after high school to become a preschool teacher

Lauren Joy Krohn

Parents: Scott and Kelle Krohn Future plans: Pursuing a nursing degree at South Central

Dylla Parents: Chris & Nick Dylla Future plans: University of Minnesota, Twin Cities – Wildlife Biology

Parents: Kathy Lamont and Brian Lamont

Future plans: Attending NOVA Academy of Cosmetology – majoring in cosmetology

Future

Future plans: Attending SCC where I will achieve an associates degree in agricultural and diesel service

Greta Marie Hahn Parents: Brady Hahn and Stacy Hahn Future plans: Starting a career in cosmetology at Nova

Ellie

Lilly Ann Lamont

Brianna Hollerich Parent: Lucas Hollerich Future plans: Going directly to college to start my biology major

Jewel Eileen Factor Parents: Paula and Brad Factor

plans: Attending NDSU for Animal Science

Cameron Nicholas Leighter Parents: Roy and Christina Leighter Future plans: Welding at SCC

Larissa Clare Hollerich Parents: Joe and Sandi Hollerich Future plans: University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, majoring in nursing

Adalyn Mae Gibeau Parents: John Gibeau and Ann Gindt Future plans: Attending South Dakota State University to major in Pre-Law.

Sabrina Marie Machado Parents: Deborah Pletsch, Jesse Pletsch, Joshua Machado Future plans: Anywhere in nature

Nicholas Antonio Maul Parents: Ronald Maul and Alaina Keizer Future plans: Planning to work at MTU in Mankato

Mariah Anne McCabe Parents: Doug McCabe & Ann McCabe Future plans: Major in nursing in Mankato at Rasmussen University

Derek Tyler Miller Parents: Tyler & Nicole Miller Future plans: Pursuing a trade in carpentry

Makenna Ruth Mueller Parents: Cole & Carrie Mueller Future plans: Kansas State University

Abigail Faith Osness Parents: Tina Lamont and Richard Osness

Madison Kathlene Peterson

Parents: Megan and Trevor Peterson Future plans: Attending Riverland Community College for radiology

Nathan Mandela Strobel Parents: Brad Strobel and Cherr Strobel Future plans: Augustana University for economics

Jackson Dean Rysdam Parents: David and Jennifer Rysdam Future plans: South Central College for welding and machining

Annika Doheny Parents: Melissa Huntington & Thomas Doheny Future plans: Going to Savannah College of Art and Design for painting and acting

Jorden Ray Zishka-Rossow Parents: Derek and Brandi Rossow Future plans: Aviation and forestry

Gabriel David Sullivan Parents: Jon and Patty Sullivan Future plans: Apprenticeship program as elevator mechanic with MEI Total Elevator Solutions

Madysen Jean Seely Parents: Mark and Valerie Seely Future plans: Majoring in dental hygiene with minor in deaf education at USD this fall

Ezequil Andresen Parents: Vanessa & Steven Andresen Future plans: Getting healthy, getting a job at a daycare or library, and getting a dog

Corbin Richard Thompson Parent: Deborah Hunt Future plans: One-year break before college, working, clearing head, and relaxing

Adam Joshua Seeman Parents: Joe Seeman and Chris Seeman Future plans: South Central College to be an electrician

Nolan Arnold Parents: Tammy & Darin Arnold Future plans: Two years at SCC, then transferring to MNSU

Erick Steven Torres Parents: Erick Torres & Kirissa Ruiz Future plans: Working in concrete industry

Jace Tyler Selly Parents: Dawn Selly and Levi Selly Future plans: Becoming a heavy equipment operator

Savannah Berg Parents: Amanda & Michael Berg Future plans: Attending U of MN for Political Science & Education

Olivia Louise Shouler Parents: Jess and Matt Shouler Future plans: Attending South Dakota State University, majoring in Advertising

Ethan Bessel Parents: Karen & Lee Bessel Future plans: Pursuing a business degree and run my own business

Ian Joseph Vlasak Parents: Matt and Cassie Vlasak Future plans: Working

Dylan James Zimmerman Parents: David and Carolyn Zimmerman Future plans: Attending Gustavus Adolphus College

Samantha Faye Steiner Parents: Nohle and Janae Steiner Future plans: Workforce

James Bisek Parents: Megan & Tim Bisek Future plans: Attending SCC for Auto Body and Collision Tech

MINNESOTA NEW COUNTRY SCHOOL

Eden Urban Parents: Erika & Joseph Urban Future plans: Direct Entry Midwife program at SouthWest Tech

Victoria Newville Parents: Christine & Matthew Newville Future plans: Attend MSU Mankato for Zoology degree

Cash Oachs Parent: Julie Oachs Future plans: National Guard

James Petsch Parents: Amanda & John Petsch

Joey Reimers Parents: Holli & Jason Reimers Future plans: Work

Henry Reinitz Parents: Sally & Josh Reinitz Future plans: Take a gap year and travel

Raymond Miller Parents: Latasha Huges & Raymond Miller Future plans: College and become a construction boss

Casey Stoffel Parents: Tamara & Chuck Stoffel Future plans: Undecided

Asher Kalstad Parents: Laurie & Josh Kalstad Future plans: Environmental Science at MSU or Gustavus

Crafting the Perfect Graduation Announcement

While many of the events surrounding graduation are steeped in tradition, there are plenty of ways to express your creative style. One of these ways comes in your graduation announcement.

Graduating from high school or college is a significant achievement, marking the culmination of years of hard work, dedication and personal growth. Sharing this milestone with loved ones is part of the celebration, and one way to do so is by sending out graduation announcements.

These announcements typically serve as a formal announcement of your achievement and provide an opportunity to express gratitude, share future

plans and invite others to join in the celebration. You can choose to go with traditional, formal formats or make your own creative, casual graduation announcement.

Jostens assures graduates there are no rules on how these work.

Choose a Design

The first step in preparing graduation announcements is selecting a design that reflects your personality and style. Whether you prefer classic elegance, modern simplicity or bold creativity,

there are countless options to choose from, including traditional paper cards, digital designs and customizable templates. Consider factors such as color scheme, typography and layout to create a design that resonates with you and captures the spirit of your graduation.

When crafting your graduation announcements, be sure to include essential details such as your full name, graduation date, degree or diploma earned, and the name of your school or university. You may also want to include additional information, such as honors or awards received, future plans or aspirations, and a personal message of thanks or reflection.

Personalize your graduation announcements with a heartfelt message that reflects your journey and expresses gratitude to those who have supported you. Whether it’s a simple thank you to family and friends, a quote that has inspired you, or a personal reflection on your educational experience, adding a personal touch to your announcements can make them more meaningful and memorable.

Distributing Announcements

Decide how you want to distribute your graduation announcements, whether it’s through traditional mail, email, social media or a combination of these methods. Consider the preferences of your intended recipients and choose the method that is most convenient and accessible for them.

If you’re sending physical cards, be sure to include postage and allow plenty of time for delivery. Give yourself plenty of time to prepare and send out your graduation announcements, ideally several weeks before your graduation date. This will ensure that your announcements arrive promptly and give recipients ample time to mark their calendars and make arrangements to celebrate with you.

Preparing graduation announcements is an opportunity to celebrate your achievements, express gratitude, and share the joy of this milestone with loved ones.

Traditions and Modern Practices

High school graduation ceremonies are steeped in tradition and symbolism, serving as a rite of passage for students transitioning from one phase of their lives to the next.

Over the years, these ceremonies have evolved significantly, reflecting changes in society, education and cultural norms.

History

The origins of high school graduation ceremonies can be traced to medieval universities, where students were awarded degrees in formal ceremonies known as commencements. These early ceremonies often included processions, academic regalia, and the conferral of degrees by university officials.

Over time, these traditions were adopted by secondary schools. In the U.S., graduation ceremonies in the 1900s included events for the graduating seniors, according to Jostens. These in-

cluded senior plays, banquets, picnics or sometimes even outdoor hikes and backpacking trips. “

Pomp and Circumstance,” the most commonly played processional, was written for the coronation of King Edward VII of Great Britain, according to History.com. In 1905, Yale bestowed an honorary degree on the song’s composer and played it for the graduation, a practice that was picked up by other schools.

Etiquette

Graduation ceremonies are formal events. Students are expected to dress appropriately, typically wearing caps and gowns in school colors. Guests should dress tastefully and refrain from disruptive behavior during the ceremony.

It is customary for attendees to arrive early, silence cell phones and remain

seated. Applause and cheering are encouraged at appropriate times, such as when graduates receive their diplomas, but excessive noise should be avoided out of respect for others and the proceedings.

Some schools limit the number of guests each graduate can have at the ceremony. Jostens recommends inviting one person from each wing of the family or coming up with a creative solution such as drawing names.

Components

While specific elements of graduation ceremonies vary from school to school, several common components include:

1. Processional. The ceremony begins with a formal procession of graduates, faculty and school officials entering the venue to the accompaniment of music.

2. Welcome address. A school administrator or faculty member delivers a welcome address, greeting attendees and setting the tone for the ceremony.

3. Student speakers. Graduation ceremonies often feature speeches by student representatives, such as class

valedictorians or student council members, reflecting on their experiences and offering words of inspiration to their peers.

4. Presentation of diplomas. Graduates are individually called to the stage to receive their diplomas or certificates, often accompanied by handshakes or congratulatory remarks from school officials.

5. Commencement address. A keynote speaker, typically a distinguished guest or prominent community member, delivers a commencement address, offering words of wisdom and encouragement to the graduating class.

6. Turning of the tassel. At the conclusion of the ceremony, graduates participate in the symbolic turning of the tassel on their mortarboard hats, signifying their transition from students to alumni.

7. Recessional. The ceremony concludes with a formal recessional, as attendees exit the venue to the accompaniment of music.

Post-Graduation Anxiety

Graduating from high school or college is a significant milestone, but it can also be a time of uncertainty and anxiety about what lies ahead.

The transition from student life to the real world can bring a range of emotions, from excitement and anticipation to fear and self-doubt. Navigating post-graduation anxiety requires resilience, self-awareness and proactive coping strategies to manage stress and uncertainty effectively.

WebMD reports that post-graduation distress is common. Libby O’Brien, a licensed professional counselor said, “The first thing to understand is that you’re not alone. Feeling anxiety, depression or some degree of ‘stuckness’ and discomfort after graduating is normal. It’s a change, and change can be very challenging to negotiate.

You don’t necessarily know what comes next.”

Acknowledge Your Feelings

The first step in managing post-graduation anxiety is to acknowledge and accept your feelings. It’s normal to feel anxious or overwhelmed about the future, especially when facing uncertainty and change. Allow yourself to experience these emotions without judgment, and recognize that it’s okay to feel scared or uncertain about what comes next.

Set realistic expectations for yourself during the transition from graduation to the next phase of your life. Avoid comparing your journey to others’ or putting undue pressure on yourself to have everything figured out right away. Understand that it’s OK to take time to explore your options, make mistakes and learn from experiences along the way.

Self-Care

While there may be many unknowns about the future, focus on what you can control in the present moment. Set small, achievable goals for yourself, such as updating your resume, networking with

professionals in your field or researching job or educational opportunities. Taking proactive steps toward your goals can help you regain a sense of agency and empowerment.

Taking care of your physical, emotional and mental well-being is crucial during times of transition and uncertainty. Make self-care a priority by

getting enough sleep, eating healthily, exercising regularly and engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Practice mindfulness, meditation or deep breathing exercises to help calm your mind and reduce stress.

Tennessee Tech advises its graduates to invest in something they are passionate

about or to start a new hobby outside their comfort zone. It’s a way, they say, to re-energize and regain focus, especially if those were things that you were too busy to do while in college.

Seek Support

Don’t hesitate to reach out for support from friends, family members, mentors or mental health professionals if you’re struggling with post-graduation anxiety. Talking openly about your feelings and concerns can provide validation, perspective, and practical advice for navigating this challenging time. Surround yourself with people who uplift and encourage you, and don’t be afraid to lean on others for support when needed.

Embrace Uncertainty

Instead of viewing uncertainty as a barrier or source of anxiety, try to re-frame it as an opportunity for growth, exploration and self-discovery. Embrace the unknown as a chance to try new things, learn from experiences and expand your horizons. Remember that setbacks and challenges are a natural part of the journey and can lead to unexpected opportunities and insights.

Networking Basics

As recent graduates embark on their professional journeys, building and nurturing a strong network of professional connections is essential for long-term success and career advancement.

Networking provides opportunities to exchange ideas, gain insights and open doors to new opportunities.

Start with Your Existing Network

Expand Your Network

Attend networking events, industry conferences, career fairs and professional meetups in your area. These events provide valuable opportunities to meet and connect with pro-

Begin your networking journey by tapping into your existing network of family, friends, classmates, professors and alumni. Let them know that you’re actively seeking opportunities in your field and ask whether they have any advice, leads or connections they can share. Personal referrals and introductions can be powerful tools for expanding your network and uncovering hidden opportunities.

fessionals in your field, learn about industry trends and expand your knowledge and skills. Be proactive and approach people with confidence, introducing yourself and initiating conversations about shared interests and goals.

Online networking platforms such as LinkedIn, X (formerly known as Twitter) and professional forums provide powerful tools for connecting with professionals and building your personal brand. Create a compelling LinkedIn profile that highlights your skills, experiences and career goals, and actively engage with industry influencers and thought

leaders by sharing content, participating in discussions and connecting with people in your field.

Volunteering for industry-related events, community service projects or nonprofit organizations is a great way to meet like-minded professionals, gain valuable experience, and give back to your community. Consider joining professional organizations, clubs or associations in your field, where you can network with peers, attend workshops and seminars, and access resources and opportunities for professional development.

Offer Value and Be Genuine

Networking is not just about making connections — it’s about building mutually beneficial relationships based on trust, respect and authenticity. Approach networking with a genuine interest in getting to know people, understanding their needs and goals and offering value wherever you can. Be a good listener, ask thoughtful questions and follow up with people you meet to nurture and maintain your connections over time.

After networking events or meetings, follow up with your new contacts to express gratitude, re-

inforce your connection and explore potential opportunities for collaboration or further discussion. Keep in touch with your network regularly by sending personalized messages, sharing relevant articles or resources and offering assistance or support whenever possible.

Networking can open doors to new opportunities, support career growth and enhance professional success for recent graduates. Remember that networking is a long-term investment in your future, so be patient, persistent and proactive in building and maintaining your network over time.

Dressing up for Graduation

Caps and gowns are iconic symbols of graduation ceremonies, representing academic achievement, tradition and the transition from student to graduate.

From their origins in medieval academia to modern-day celebrations, caps and gowns have remained an integral part of graduation attire, steeped in symbolism and tradition.

Origin and Symbolism

The tradition of wearing caps and gowns dates back to medieval Europe, where scholars and clergy donned academic robes as a symbol of their status and learning.

These early robes were practical garments designed to keep scholars warm in unheated buildings, with hoods serving as makeshift head coverings. Over time, academic dress became more standardized, with distinct styles and colors representing different degrees, disciplines and institutions.

Today, caps and gowns are worn by graduates at high school, college and

university graduation ceremonies around the world. The cap, or mortarboard, symbolizes the culmination of academic achievement, while the gown represents scholarly tradition and dignity.

How to Wear Them

Wearing caps and gowns correctly is an important part of graduation etiquette. Here’s how to do it according to Jostens:

Cap: Place the mortarboard squarely on your head, with the front point centered and the tassel hanging to the right side. The cap should sit flat

and level, not tilted or cocked to one side. Men should take the caps off during the school song and the National Anthem.

Gown: Put on the gown with the zipper or buttons at the front. The sleeves should hang down naturally, with the hem of the gown falling to mid-calf length. If the gown has a hood, drape it over your shoulders with the velvet trim facing outward. Traditionally, garments worn under the gowns include dark trousers with dress shirts or lightweight dresses or blouses and skirts that do not hang

below the gowns. Some people wear a detachable white collar. Flowers and jewelry should not be worn on the gown.

Tassel: At many graduation ceremonies, the tassel starts on the right side of the cap and is moved to the left side after receiving your diploma. Some schools have specific instructions for when to turn the tassel, so be sure to follow any guidance provided by your institution.

Sometimes caps and gowns are accessorized with stoles or honor cords depending on the school’s traditions.

Mortarboard Decoration

In recent years, there has been a growing trend of decorating mortarboards with creative designs, personal messages, and symbols representing graduates’ interests and achievements. This tradition of personalizing mortarboards has its roots in individual expression and celebration.

A professor from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Sheila Bock, researches mortarboards. She said the earliest examples she found of people decorat-

ing mortarboards were in the 1960s as protests against the Vietnam War. Graduates use a variety of materials and techniques to decorate their mortarboards, including paint, glitter, rhinestones, fabric and decals. Common motifs include graduation caps, diplomas, school mascots, quotes and symbols representing future aspirations or hobbies. Decorating mortarboards has become a fun and creative way for graduates to express their personalities and commemorate their academic journey.