I write to you from reading period, an already strange time of freedom and tons of work all rolled in one. As a senior, it’s even stranger. On one hand, I’m sitting through ceremonies in full regalia being told that I’ve “done it,” and on the other, I can still count the number of assignments that stand between me and my diploma. I actually haven’t gotten around to working on any of my finals yet, since I’ve been so busy with wrapping up the school year in every other way possible: squeezing in some last work shifts with catering, hosting events at the Zü, spending every minute possible with my friends, and trying to figure out post-grad plans.
One other such (welcome) distraction was Senior Assembly on Tuesday evening, after the last day of classes. Graduating students and faculty all gathered in Johnson Chapel in regalia to formally close the semester and usher in this graduation season. We heard two student speakers, elected in the senior speak-off last month, and Professor Stefan Bradley from the Black Studies department, who was nominated by the senior class. They all did a phenomenal job, and it was especially meaningful to see Professor Bradley up there, since I’m in class with him this semester. We also heard a few pieces from the Glee Club and President Elliott + Provost Umphrey handed out senior awards.
After the assembly, we all changed out of regalia and headed over to a big tent on Val quad for the celebration! Catering supplied a beautiful dinner and there were free drinks and a great band. Dinner turned into dancing, and I felt like I was previewing what it’ll be like five years from now going to friends’ weddings. After that was dorm storm, a tradition where seniors head back to their freshman dorms to bother (and bring gifts to) the current residents. It’s very sweet. I headed back to Charles Pratt, where I lived my first year, and was hit with simultaneous waves of nostalgia and gladness that I’ve come so far since then. I was glad to come back to the Zü, which is the part of campus I really call home.
It’s an odd, beautiful time right now, knowing it’s all ending so soon. There’s been more sappiness in the last days than the last four years combined, but I can’t help it. If you’re reading this as a prospective student or underclassman, know that the days really are long, but the years are so, so, short.
Time to start my finals. Until next time!