Wright State University graduation ceremony | Photo by Soham Parikh | The Wright State Guardian
Two months ago, Wright State University made the decision to switch to remote learning along with many other higher learning institutions.
When students left campus following the announcement, no one knew that it would be the last time they would be there for the semester and for some, the remainder of their college careers.
Reaching the finish line
“As a young, single mom, I never thought I’d get to graduate college, so I was truly heartbroken when I found out the graduation ceremony was canceled,” said senior Kait Smithson, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in English. “I was supposed to be running my first half marathon the day after graduation to celebrate, and my mom was throwing a party the following week. Now, I will be staying home and celebrating with my son.”
Smithson will be having a “Not Going Back to School” party in August to celebrate. She isn’t sure if she would walk in a rescheduled graduation due to a busy schedule.
There are currently no solid plans for a rescheduled commencement date. Gov. Mike DeWine has announced an extended stay-at-home order which could further push back alternate dates.
Hannah Vanek is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in biological sciences. Medical school is a part of her long-term plan so she can become a pediatric doctor.
“It’s [the pandemic] really only piqued my interest even more and made me think about what will change in both everyday life as well as in the healthcare field after this is over. Hopefully, this pandemic puts things into perspective for everyone,” said Vanek.
Planning ahead
Vanek came to WSU from out of state. After in-person classes came to a halt, she returned home to finish school. If commencement is rescheduled, she plans to come back with her family to celebrate.
Eric Maier majored in mechanical engineering. Coronavirus has affected his school as well as his job.
“I’m now on a work from home order, with some in-office days starting soon, and have also been asked to work reduced hours as well with reduced pay,” said Maier. “We’ve had some discussions with our management on when a restart would occur for people to go back to the office. We have talked about early to mid-May for our full restart.”
Maier’s plan after graduation is to move to Greenfield, Ind.
He planned to spend time with family to celebrate on the day of commencement but the day has since turned into a moving day for Maier.
University President Dr. Sue Edwards shared a video for graduates on the date of scheduled commencement, along with a surprise word from supporter Tom Hanks.
“We are certain of one thing on this day, you will not let us down,” said Hanks.
The university made conscious efforts to celebrate graduating seniors. Hundreds of submitted photos were posted throughout social media.
