Covid-19 has impacted the world in ways people could never have expected, and unfortunately, that includes making traditional graduation ceremonies a thing of the past.
Graduates no longer have to endure the large crowds, obligatory handshakes with people they’ve never met, and awkward speeches from people they’ve never heard of. In the same respect, that also means they miss out on the farewell hugs, sappy family photos, and the chance to be recognized by loved ones and strangers for accomplishing something they set out to do.
For some, they are relieved they won’t have to participate in this nausea-inducing event that is simultaneously exciting and embarrassing. Most grads, however, are feeling cheated out of a ceremony that they’ve rightfully earned.
While we can’t say if or when in-person ceremonies will resume, that doesn’t mean this milestone shouldn’t be celebrated.
Although we can’t promise you Oprah Winfrey, like #Graduation 2020: Facebook and Instagram Celebrate the Class of 2020‘s star-studded Friday, May 15, virtual event, we’ve created a Congratulations, You’ve Graduated Playlist to listen to when you are ready to celebrate this momentous achievement.
Graduation ceremonies serve as a physical representation of all of the hard work and sacrifices you and your family — given or chosen — have had to make to get there.
And it’s sweet, sweet, sweet victory… yeah
It’s ours for the taking
It’s ours for the fight
Sweet, sweet, sweet victory… yeah
David Glen Eisley and Bob Kulick’s song “Sweet Victory” is a throwback that you probably didn’t expect, but what better way to bask in this moment, than with Spongebob, who has likely been there with you at least at some point along the way.
Schools out, but this isn’t the end for you and your friends.
It’s been a long day without you, my friend
And I’ll tell you all about it when I see you again
We’ve come a long way from where we began
Oh I’ll tell you all about it when I see you again
You and your friends have gotten through a lot and made it this far together, and undoubtedly, like Wiz Khalifa and Charlie Puth’s “See You Again,” you’re waiting until it’s safe to be together again.
Thankfully, for the people, places, and classes, you’d rather forget, you won’t have to see them again.
I’m free to be the greatest, I’m alive
I’m free to be the greatest here tonight, the greatest
The greatest, the greatest alive
The greatest, the greatest alive
Like Sia’s “The Greatest,” you’re free to say bye to your haters and move on without looking back.
Most importantly, this moment is about you and all that you’ve achieved.
I don’t ever want to let you down
I don’t ever want to leave this town
‘Cause after all
This city never sleeps at night
Imagine Dragon’s “It’s Time,” became one of the ultimate graduation songs when it was featured in The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012). Since I was plagued by it at both of my graduations, it is only right that I pass this heavily unwanted torch to you.