Graduation is a milestone in a person’s life, marking a day of accomplishment and determination. With the students graduating in December, graduates have a chance to celebrate their accomplishments.

Some students know precisely how they will celebrate graduation. Morgan Poorte, a general arts major, says her friends and family are planning a surprise party for her graduation. Moving forward, she plans to apply for graduate school, create a strong portfolio and study abroad in Vancouver, Canada.

“I am excited to apply for grad school and get my master’s in animation,” Poorte said.

Other graduates are unsure of how they’ll celebrate, such as Jessica Dye, who is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Music.

Dye started at Weber State in Spring 2021 and attended classes during the summer semesters to graduate in 3.5 years. Dye is most excited about accomplishing this challenge; graduating is something she never thought would be possible in her 40s.

“I will be taking a break from school until fall and working with Riverton Music, teaching band to elementary kids, helping to compile teaching books with arrangements made from teachers around the state—including myself—and writing music for table-top campaigns!” Dye said.

Tyler Baker, a rehabilitation science major, plans to spend quality time with family and then take a few weeks’ vacation to the Oregon coast the following spring and summer.

Madelyn Terry, a medical laboratory sciences major, is excited to graduate with honors alongside the friends she has made from the program. Terry hopes to become a Physician’s Assistant and serve her local community.

“To celebrate, I first want to thank the incredibly caring, talented and supportive teachers and staff in the MLS program. Second, I want to thank my family for their unconditional love and support. They all have helped me achieve my degrees,” Terry said. “I plan on celebrating with my family at a local restaurant for dinner, then head home to kick their butt in a fierce family game night.”

Jacoba Jones, an English major, looks forward to applying what she has learned at Weber State and continuing to develop and learn in new ways. Jones’ grandparents, parents and seven older siblings are all Weber State graduates and she is excited to follow in her family’s footsteps.

“I can’t wait for the opportunities ahead!” Jones said.