Graduation as a Rite of Passage in Academia

Have you ever considered whether a degree is merely a ticking of a box, a line on a CV, or an expensive printed certificate? Far from it! A degree is a significant milestone that symbolizes years of dedication, hard work, and personal growth. It's much more than just an administrative update on your student record— it's a rite of passage that signifies the transition from student to professional, from novice to expert.

The Administrative Task vs. The Journey

Graduating from university requires a series of key strokes to update your academic record. With a degree and completion date, your achievements are recorded for posterity. This administrative task, however, fails to capture the essence of what you've accomplished. Years of hard work, countless late nights, the clash of ideas, and the deepening of understanding are all part of the academic journey. Enrolling in prestigious academic programs taught by experts who are pushing the boundaries of knowledge helps shape your mind and career. All of this, while figuring out who you are as a new adult in the world, marks a significant rite of passage.

A Near Miss and a Reminder of Achievement

Of course, the road to graduation isn't always smooth. I almost didn't make it. During my final year of university, I lost focus and ended up with a disappointing Second Class Division Two (a "2–2"). I was at the bottom of a class of about ten, which was disheartening and demoralizing. At first, I didn't want to attend the ceremony. I spent a few days wallowing in my unhappiness. It wasn't until I started reflecting on what I had accomplished that I decided to celebrate my degree.

Weeks later, I found myself participating in the graduation ceremony at the magnificent McEwen Hall in Edinburgh University, wearing the gown of my academic discipline, a new black suit, and silk tie. I was surrounded by hundreds of my peers. I realized how important it was to be there to celebrate my achievement. I eventually swallowed my disappointment, got tickets for my parents, and relished the experience of being led to the stage by a humourless attendant. The magnificently-garbed senior academic then conferred my degree with all the pomp and ceremony necessary.

The Value of Graduation Ceremonies

Graduation ceremonies are not just about the individual, however. They are a community celebration, filled with the joy of families and friends who have supported the graduates through their journeys. Every year at Heriot-Watt University, there's a sense of excitement and camaraderie as families travel from all corners of the world to celebrate. The formal gardens are filled with people posing for pictures, and the vast space of Oriam becomes a stage for one of the most memorable moments of their lives.

Witnessing these moments makes the job of an academic even more rewarding. I now work at Heriot-Watt University, and the highlight of the year is undoubtedly seeing families, all dressed in their best, celebrate their loved ones' achievements. This experience emphasizes the importance of the academic journey and the rites of passage that come with it.

Conclusion: A Celebration of Personal and Academic Growth

In conclusion, graduation is a rite of passage that marks significant personal and academic growth. Whether it's on a line on a CV or in the memories of a family celebration, graduation is about more than just a piece of paper—it's about a journey you've undertaken, the lessons you've learned, and the person you've become. So, embrace the journey, and draw strength from the achievements along the way. After all, a degree is not just a ticket to a new world of possibilities; it's a testament to your hard work and dedication.

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Keywords: graduation ceremony, academic journey, rites of passage