By Bella Burbic

As we finish up finals and our classes, I want to congratulate all communication students for another successful semester. We have all persevered through changes and challenges throughout this whole year, and we have managed to come out stronger. There have been some great moments too, and we should all be proud of ourselves and our accomplishments. 

A special shout-out to my fellow seniors, we have come so far. We are at the finish line! As a senior myself, I am feeling many emotions, excited, fearful, proud, uncomfortable, sad, happy, and thankful, are just some of the many. I want to remind everyone to let themselves feel these emotions, because they are extremely natural. Change is hard and scary, but also a chance to allow new sources of happiness into your life. I know that the class of 2022 is going to do great things and can get through tough times, so remember to take it easy on yourself, and to try and enjoy this last week. 

It’s also time to celebrate! The university wide commencement ceremony is Friday, May 13th at McGuirk Alumni Stadium, from 4:30-6:30 pm. The college of Social and Behavioral Sciences graduation, which includes the Communication department, is on Saturday, May 14th at 1:30pm in the Mullins Center. Family and friends are encouraged to attend this graduation and your individual name will be announced. Communication professors and faculty will be attending this celebration as well. 

As I reflect on my experience, I am proud to be a part of the communication department and to have finished my undergrad degree at UMass. Whether you are finishing your first, last or spring semester, a final congratulations and a reminder to finish off strong. The future is bright for us all. Good luck on whatever’s next for you, and a final farewell from your senior Peer Advisors. It was a pleasure working with you and getting to know you!