Students across the country are facing disappointment and frustration as their senior years, which were already disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic, are now being thwarted due to protests related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. Many high school graduates from the class of 2020 had their senior year traditions altered, only to face similar challenges as college seniors in 2024. At universities like U.S.C. and Columbia, protests erupted in response to the cancellation of commencement speeches by notable figures and the administration’s handling of the situation. Student activists are demanding that their voices be heard and are calling for their rights to be respected amidst the global turmoil.
For many seniors, the culmination of their college experience is marred by the cancellation of traditional senior year events and ceremonies. Despite the disappointment and frustration, some students are finding moments of celebration and unity amidst the chaos. Those like Maideh Orangi, who has been organizing demonstrations and vigils for Palestinians, and Sophia Pargas, who has been covering protests on her campus, are determined to find meaning in their disrupted senior years. However, the cancellation of commencement ceremonies at U.S.C. and other universities has left many students feeling a sense of loss and bitterness about the way their college experience is ending.
The decision to cancel or alter commencement ceremonies has sparked a range of emotions among students. Some, like Ruby Cayenne, feel personally attacked and harassed by those protesting the Israel-Hamas conflict, while others, like Mustafa Ali Khan, are disappointed for their family members who were looking forward to celebrating their graduation. Meanwhile, students like Neeve Levy, who grapples with the complex and difficult issue of the Israel-Palestine conflict, understand the protesters’ motivations but are torn between their desire to participate and their concerns for their friends and family.
The current atmosphere of unrest and activism on college campuses has forced many seniors to navigate their personal milestones against a backdrop of global turmoil and controversy. Some, like Divya Jakatdar at U.S.C., are grappling with feelings of loss and frustration over the cancellation of commencement ceremonies, while others like Rachel Burns at Columbia are committed to standing in solidarity with their fellow protestors and ensuring their demands are met. Despite the challenges and disruptions, students like Sofia Ongele are finding solace in the camaraderie and shared experiences of their classmates during these tumultuous times.
As the class of pandemic graduates continues to adapt to changing circumstances and face uncertainty about the future, there is a shared sense of resilience and determination among students to make the most of their remaining time in college. Many, like Lindsay, who is hopeful for a meaningful commencement ceremony amid the protests, are focused on finding moments of celebration and unity despite the challenges they face. As they navigate the complexities of global events and personal milestones, these students are demonstrating their ability to confront adversity with grace and strength, even when faced with unexpected disruptions and disappointments.
