The Countdown to Commencement Is On

Photo collage showcasing photos of two seniors getting hands-on experience before they graduate in 2018 against a backdrop of spotlights with #UML2018

05/11/2018
By University Relations Staff

As Commencement draws near, we checked in with our soon-to-be graduates. They've made the most of their time here, in the classrooms and research labs, at internships and co-op jobs, on sports teams and in student clubs. They’ve prepared themselves for their next steps, through hands-on learning opportunities like running therapy sessions, teaching schoolchildren about the environment or working with people recovering from traumatic brain injuries.

Now, our seniors are ready to make their mark on the world, whether they pursue graduate education or launch their careers. Below, they share some of their stories and the lessons they learned along the way.

  • The class of 2018 share their legacy and lessons learned after four years. Watch more grads in action

Student Speakers


Two students are selected from a crowd of applicants to deliver speeches before thousands of proud grads and their families, university administrators and faculty.

Larry Siegel, Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and University Events, and Chancellor Jacquie Moloney with three honored student award winners at the 2017 Commencement Eve Celebration

The 11th Annual Commencement Eve Celebration

Friday, May 18 at 5:30 p.m.

Join us for Commencement Eve, a time when the entire university community comes together to celebrate the important achievements of the year. Honorary degree recipients, speakers, distinguished alumni and talented students are honored during this elegant event. Learn more and get tickets

Meet Some of Our Graduating Students

See more
  • Mya Neary
    Mya Neary
    Entrepreneurship & Management

    Mya Neary won an honors fellowship to learn more about running an urban farming nonprofit. Now she’s volunteering with Mill City Grows while developing her own business plan.

  • Payal Patel
    Payal Patel
    Biology, UTeach

    When Payal Patel started college as an engineering major, she missed tutoring and teaching – so she decided to make education her career.

  • Andrew Sciascia
    Andrew Sciascia
    Political Science & Criminal Justice

    Andrew Sciascia’s studies in political science and homeland security are combining with his student newspaper experience to prepare him for a career as a political analyst.

  • Nicholas Abourizk
    Nicholas Abourizk
    Theatre Arts

    Nick Abourizk started college with plans to pursue a biology degree – but he couldn’t deny his passion for acting. An Oprah Winfrey Scholarship affirmed his decision to switch his major to Theatre Arts.

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