Winter graduation 2025

If there’s a graduation ceremony I tend to go. It’s expected of us, and it is highly unlikely there isn’t a student getting their diploma who means something to you, like a former dissertation student or a personal tutee. So after all the marking I headed for main campus in a dress, and went to get my gown. 

I never know what I am going to get, and this time it was a number in red and white. I thought it looked very Christmassy. Very nice!

Seasonal gown

The ceremony was like most others. Lots of proud students we clapped for. And a musical interval. And there were two people who got a special award. Both of them were a bit emotional about it.

When the ceremony was over we were led into the public courtyard of the university. It was quite windy there! Some pictures were taken, but a lot of people got cold. And a lot of mortarboards flew off. I had a bit of a chat with a few students (including a fresh Doctor!) I knew better than most, but I decided I was not going to go to the reception. I had other stuff to do.

Staff group pic

I handed the gown back and headed to the office. So for me, this wasn't a spectacular occasion, but I really hope that for those who were there to celebrate, it really was!