May 2025 Beyond the applause, what does graduation mean? by Adan Perez Herrera

Caps flying, loud cheers ringing out, and a crowd celebrating a shared achievement, this is the scene most associated with graduation. But once the applause fades, what comes next? Five years of preparation for five minutes of celebration, is that all? Absolutely not. Graduation is more than just a moment of personal pride. It marks a rite of passage, an introduction into the responsibility of becoming a builder of society. The knowledge and skills gained throughout the educational journey are not merely for personal gain but are tools to contribute meaningfully to your family, your community, and the world. Thus, graduation should not be seen as an end, but as a powerful new beginning. It is a call to action, an invitation to live out professionalism and ethics, and to commit oneself to the continuous work of creating a better, more just society.

Over several years, some study for two years, others three years, and some even five years, students immerse themselves in a specific field, willingly preparing to devote their lives to it. However, education is not just about acquiring knowledge, memorizing theories, or applying methods. Beyond academics, students continually develop discipline, time management, and professionalism. Every class, assignment, and assessment imparts information and shapes individuals who can contribute meaningfully to society. These experiences cultivate a mindset of responsibility and ethical thinking. In the end, a proper education prepares students not just for a career, but for a lifetime of purposeful engagement in the world around them.

t's true that upon graduation, students often dream of where they'll work, what role they'll fill, and what salary they'll earn. However, every career field is highly competitive, with many others graduating simultaneously and all searching for the same opportunities. The preparation, experience, and projects you've done throughout your educational journey will set you apart from the other applicants.

While the transition from student to professional may seem scary, it is essential to remember that the actual value of education lies in the preparation it provides for life's challenges. Every lesson, project, and moment of personal growth equips graduates with more than technical skills; it fosters adaptability and the ethical foundation needed to succeed. As you step into the workforce, remember that you are not just seeking a job, but creating your legacy as a contributor to the greater good, and this legacy will remain forever.

With this said, graduation is far more than a celebration of personal achievement; it marks the beginning of a lifelong journey of growth and contribution. The knowledge and skills gained over the years are for personal advancement and serve as the foundation for building a better society. The responsibility to apply what they’ve learned in the service of others, whether through their careers, relationships, or communities, should become their primary focus. Graduation is not the end of a chapter but the opening of a new one, where students step into the world as professionals and active participants in shaping the future.