Rylie Horrall |  Lifestyle Editor

Graduation and Western’s virtual Commencement ceremony are approaching quickly, with important deadlines coming and going. While the deadlines for Grad Packs and registration for the ceremony have already passed — although the latter statement may have been extended, according to Western’s website — there are still some things seniors should try to complete before the final hurrah. 

Attempting to have professional graduation photos may be a struggle due to the current situation of the world, but that doesn’t mean they have to be skipped. Roommates, friends or family members may be willing to lend a hand to memorialize the coming occasion, or perhaps a timer on a camera or smartphone may be the way to go. Western’s campus is closed for courses, however it’s still a viable option for some last pictures at the university.

Continuing from that point, the deadline for submitting a graduation photo and personal statement for commencement is May 31. While it isn’t the same as an in-person celebration, this can give students a chance to still have a special final moment during the viewing at home.

This last term could have been draining for students; some may find themselves lacking motivation to finish or struggling to balance projects amid trying to ensure all graduation requirements are met. Nevertheless, it’s still important to finish the final term strong. For many, students will have the satisfaction of knowing, despite potential challenges from throughout the term, that they ended their college journey on a good note.

Before leaving Western, it wouldn’t hurt to start networking while on the hunt for jobs post-graduation. Professors in a chosen major field would be a great resource to turn to, or peers and former classmates who have already graduated who already went through the process. It would also be beneficial to obtain letters of recommendation for future job opportunities, which could come from previous professors, advisers and staff members. 

Contact the author at rhorrall17@wou.edu

Photo by Caity Healy