Graduation Day: Better late than never

There was a time when it seemed like it would never happen. But…

It finally happened.

It wasn’t perfect, per se, but it was perfect in its own way. For the 4 days we were there in Cambridge, each evening, and most afternoons, were spent with friends. We ate dinner, we laughed, we drank, we punted, we shared memories. We even got refused entry to a particular nightclub at midnight…thanks Corey!…and that didn’t slow us down. 🤷‍♀️

The ceremony itself wasn’t exactly ideal, as COVID restrictions meant we had to stay outside until our line of 3 was called, so many of us didn’t get to hear the initial part of the ritual, which from what I hear involved a lot of Latin, but still!

However, because we were stuck outside, I got the chance to shoot the breeze for a while with a couple of old friends and meet new ones. And the day was full of joy & happiness.

Queens’ college.

In bloom.

One of the most interesting things about attending an ancient university, and an ancient college within it, is reflecting on the thousands of people who have come along before, walking or biking the same lanes, passing through the same (tiny) doorways, attending dinner in the same formal dining hall. And this visit brought that home to me in vivid detail.

Though the ceremony used technology in order to be live-streamed for friends & family back home, the use of Latin and the strict formality (including the dress code: Why else would I wear black pantyhose?!) made for an emotional and almost somber moment: this is a big deal.

Then I left the senate hall, got photos taken from official photographers, cracked jokes with friends old and new, went to a reception at Queens’, and drank a bit of bubbly.

on the mathematical bridge. in my Harry Potter gown. laughing and almost crying.

My friends. They’re the best. so many hugs. A few tears.

And a lot of champagne.

The next day we all met up to hang out on the river. More talking, laughing, debating, eating, drinking, and memories made. One of my favorite days ever.

punting along the cam

lounging around the lawn at Queens’.

Turns out, graduating as a “non-traditional” (read: older) student? It involves the same level of elation as graduating as a youngster. And...maybe…more?

Wouldn’t trade it for the world.