So yesterday was graduation day for UMass Lowell. The celebration actually started the night before with a reception honoring Senator John Kerry, honorary degree recipients, and student award winners of the Chancellor's Medal. The dinner went awesome as I got to spend time with two of my friends, Steve and Mellisa, both of whom were receiving the medal. I spoke to Chancellor Marty Meehan for a few moments to reflect on the event. I told him it was more professional then last year's awards dinner when I received the Chancellor's Medal. The Allen House has become the main highlight of the South Campus.
Saturday went great. For the first time, each person's name was read and everyone received their diplomas in one place, the Tsongas Arena. I got to wear a crazy cool trustee cap and gown. The new provost from Northeastern sat next to me. We both gave each other a look when we were walking to the platform because our seats were like right behind the podium, like right behind with no room in between. We got up there and I was like...hmmm..lets move these back and to the left. Then the Middlesex Sheriff did his presentation which was really cool. John Kerry's speech was very modern and fun. Someone yelled "Don't tase me bro," when he took to the microphone. The timing was perfect and Kerry handled it well.
A point where I was really impressed was during Kerry's speech. A beach ball was making its way throughout the Tsongas and it was quite distracting. Then a student kept the ball still for about five minutes and then let it loose when Kerry was done speaking. Having had a conversation with UMass President Wilson earlier that morning about UMass Amherst having less beach balls out this year then last, I felt like the Lowell campus showed its professionalism when the students stopped throwing the ball around during such an important speech. I think it shows the concept that UMass Lowell students know how to have fun when it is called for but also know when to settle down and focus on a task. I was very proud of our campus at that moment.
I was really excited when I saw my friends come across the stage to get their diplomas. I was trying to make eye contact with them but it was hard as I was hidden behind the podium. It was a great day.
In other news...I have an interview for a job teaching music for next year. It is my dream job so I am really hoping that it works out. I am very impatient when it comes to this stuff but I am quickly learning that it takes a long time. I kind of wish I would hold off teaching one more year so I could be Student Trustee again. Being at commencement made me excited about my role.
Signing off,
Tony B.
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