For this, I have decided I am going to do a Q&A with my present self and future self. I am a college senior, graduating from Washington State University on Saturday, May 9^th. I’ll be graduating with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and media production with a minor in sports journalism (just some get-to-know-me stuff). I am obviously upset that I will not be graduating like the years before me, but it is what it is, and I have to move on. I have never seen an online graduation I don’t know what to expect because I have not really been paying much attention to the emails… all I know is that I’ve registered.

Originally, The Edward R. Murrow College of Communication was supposed to graduate with the college of nursing from 3-5 p.m. Normally, you go to The Coug, Pullman’s iconic local pub, celebrate, then go to the ceremony, then celebrate some more.

I have my questions from my present self below. I am now passing it on to future self which will be from May 9^th.

This is future self and future self is writing in bold. I just finished up with the virtual ceremony and I am well disappointed, but all things considering, I guess that is to be expected.

My first question for my future self is, what does your day consist of?

Great first question old self. I woke up today, took a shower and headed downstairs. My mom got me a customized mug, so I had coffee in that. We watched the graduation on the TV and then we took photos and just hung out as a family all day with a few neighbors coming by here and there.

Next question, what was the virtual ceremony like?

Here is the important stuff. In my mind, I thought they would read off names and I don’t know if that was realistic or not, but it didn’t happen. The ceremony started at 10 a.m. with the president of the university making opening remarks. Then he passed it to the interim provost who spoke a few words and then it went to the dean of each college announcing how many graduates each college had. After that, they had shoutouts from other people such as Washington state’s governor, old alumni, and even Macklemore as he was supposed to perform for Mom’s Weekend. Once the shoutouts were over, it wrapped up. The whole thing took a little less than an hour.

Third, what did you like or dislike about today?

I like that I am able to spend quality time with my family today. They got signs for the front yard and set up games. I do have to admit though I am sadder than anything. I wish I could be in Pullman having one last celebration with my friends. With how things have turned out, being a college grad doesn’t really feel real yet.

And finally, anything else you would like to add?

As hard as this situation is for the class of 2020 and everyone else, I would just try and stay positive and surround yourself with people, but also realize it is okay to need a moment alone. After today, I would say if your school is offering an in-person graduation, try your best to go to that.