Graduation—Bittersweet and Happy Endings

Photo taken by Digital Communications Intern Sarah Wang (Class of 2019)

In the midst of college application deadlines, seniors find themselves busy balancing schoolwork, applications, and extracurriculars. If you find yourself in a similar situation, don't give up hope, for there will be a happy ending. In this blog post, senior Sarah Wang (Class of 2019) reminisces on her thrilling experience covering Arcadia High's graduation. 

Graduation is perhaps one of the happiest and most bittersweet moments in life. You’re leaving all your friends, teachers, and classmates behind, but it is for a future that holds incredible things. However, for me, these past two graduations have been an opportunity for me to say my final thank yous to all the amazing seniors that have made an impact on my life. I’m so glad I got the opportunity to cover the event for DCI and capture this joyous moment for the hundreds of students that worked hard to reach the finish line.

Covering an event, especially one as large-scale as graduation, always comes with a sort of thrill. You’re there early with your press pass on and have the ability to strut past long lines to the restricted areas. During the event, you weave through the crowds and can be right where the action is. Last year, I was stationed behind at the Lifetouch stands to capture shots of the graduates as they received their diplomas which gave me a sense of the speed and precision professional professionals need to get their job done efficiently. It was incredibly heartwarming to see all the handmade signs, flowers, and posters that the graduates’ family and friends brought to support them, and I’m glad I was able to be a part of the experience. On the DCI side, it was also super fun to hang out with the other interns and bond over our sore feet and figuring out camera issues. Overall, though covering the small events is important, graduation is definitely one of the most fun events to cover and attend.