By Caroline Dehn, EIC Academics
On March 11, the GW administration released a statement declaring that the 2021 commencement ceremony will be virtual again this year. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the university faculty came to the conclusion that an in-person graduation would be unsafe for the students and staff involved.
Though this decision was made for the safety of everyone, many seniors are unhappy with the decision in light of recent announcements from both Georgetown University and American University that their graduation ceremonies will be held in-person at Nationals Park and Bender Arena, respectively. Safety is a big priority during this pandemic and students understand that, however, many wonder why other universities in D.C. can make their commencement ceremony work in-person, when we cannot.
“A virtual setting isn’t what I had in mind for my college graduation but obviously it was determined to be unsafe by the school and the city of D.C. so I respect that decision,” said Maddie McLaughlin, senior in School of Engineering and Applied Science. “I’m happy I am now able to spend graduation directly with my family and we can all be together at home.”
With students coming from all over the country, it is important to recognize that many factors are at play when deciding to have an in person graduation.
“I do wish GW was more transparent with us about why they could not get any sort of in person event, like Georgetown and American did, but I understand why we need to celebrate virtually.” McLaughlin said.
Many students agree with CCAS senior Selin Ciesielski, who believes if other universities in the area can make in person graduation work, there’s no reason why GW can’t as well.
“I understand the current circumstances with the pandemic, but I do think GW could’ve done more to put together some type of in person ceremony for the students. Throughout our four years at GW we look forward to graduating on the National Mall and now some of us may not be able to return to the city when it’s safe to do so, depending on our individual commitments,” Ciesielski said. “It’s disappointing to see that even after surveys and getting opinions from students, they still stuck with the same plan they had last August. Other schools in the DC area found alternative ways to celebrate their graduates and I think if GW really cared they would’ve done the same.”
Though the feelings are mixed on whether the 2021 commencement ceremony could have been held in person, it is important that everyone continues to stay safe and get vaccinated for the future of GW student life.
Congratulations to all of the GW 2021 seniors, and good luck in the future, from everyone at the Local!
