Despite coronavirus, college graduates deserve the ceremonies in their honor

June 17^th, 2018 was a day I will always remember. I woke up at 6:15 a.m. after spending the night at my aunt’s. It was time to get ready. But I wasn’t getting ready for any regular day. Black tie. Black gown. Blue sash. I was getting ready for my UCLA graduation ceremony.

Ever since middle school, I had wanted to attend college at UCLA. It was my dream school. And so, I spent my four years at Sunnyside High School in Fresno working toward that dream. In March 2014, that dream came true when I received my acceptance.

When I arrived for fall quarter of my freshman year, I was ecstatic, but also nervous. I had never lived away from home before. I questioned whether or not I would be able to make it through.

I majored in microbiology, immunology, and molecular genetics. Classes were difficult, and I had to push myself harder than I ever have before. One ... 2 ... 3 a.m. Sometimes, it felt like I would have to be up all night in order to complete a certain assignment or pass a certain midterm. But I was determined. I knew I had to work hard to achieve an even bigger dream.

That dream was to be a doctor.

On top of my science classes, I volunteered at free clinics, conducted research in labs, and shadowed physicians at Ronald Reagan Medical Center. It wasn’t easy. My mom would often tell me I looked exhausted whenever I visited home.

But I was almost at the finish line. And so I kept pushing. I had to make a lot of sacrifices in order to excel both inside and outside of the classroom. But it was worth it. On June 17^th, 2018, I graduated summa cum laude from one of the world’s top-ranked universities.

That day was followed by another equally memorable day one year later. And that was August 11^th, 2019. My white coat ceremony. I was going to attend the UCSF School of Medicine. My dream of becoming a doctor was now a reality. And this was because of my experience and achievements at UCLA.

Just recently, Class of 2020 students at a variety of universities were informed that their commencement ceremonies would be now online due to COVID-19. Although this was enacted for the safety of students and their families, I believe an alternative should be considered.

Graduation ceremonies should be postponed until deemed safe for in-person. Students have worked so hard and have overcome many obstacles to be celebrated this day. Some worked multiple jobs during school. Some moved across the country. Some are the first in their family to graduate. And they deserve to be celebrated the right way.

So, to all universities switching to online commencement, please consider postponing ceremonies and give these students a day they will never forget. I know I won’t.