After the Pomp and Circumstance

Before all the details slip my mind, I need to write about my graduation from Bastyr University this past Monday. It was a true celebration, far more grandiose and joyful than I expected. Just trying on my gown the night before felt momentous, even if it did make me look like a linebacker.

The time spent rehearsing, eating a quick lunch provided by Bastyr, and getting lined up for the procession was our last chance to bond before going our separate ways. After all, we had spent the last two years in the same classes every quarter – these faces have become a part of my life. I felt buoyed by the collective excitement, proud of our accomplishments, and ready to move on.


My mother had flown in from California, and my brother and his family came from Arizona to witness the ceremony. As I filed into Benaroya Hall with the rest of the graduating students I had no hope of finding them in the audience because nearly every seat was full, and the noise from the cheering and clapping was so tremendous that it would surely drown out any sound they made. Nonetheless, I was not five steps down the aisle when I heard someone yell my name and, looking to my right, saw my family shouting and waving at me, my husband holding the camera up high above his head in an attempt to videotape the procession.


I felt like a star. In retrospect, that sounds a little ridiculous, but at the time it felt great. And of course I wasn’t the only star that afternoon – we were a constellation of stars! (I can’t help being maudlin…) This was nothing like my first college graduation, twenty years ago now. I can barely remember that graduation. This one I will likely never forget. This one I really worked hard for, and this one felt like the end of a journey, not just a transition.

Later, my husband stood at the edge of the stage to capture the moment that my name was called and I crossed the stage to accept my diploma. My sister-in-law whooped loudly enough to scandalize her two boys, and Dr. Kestin, who was presenting me with my master’s hood, said, “Sounds like you’ve got a fan!” I don’t if that’s how I would put it, but I was definitely feeling the love!

When all the Master’s grads had made it onto the stage, Dr. Church officially conferred us with our degrees and reminded us to “master” ourselves, rather than others.


Five days later, I’m still feeling a little choked up and am suddenly aware of the friends who have already moved away for their dietetic internships in far-flung states. Luckily, several friends remain here in the Seattle area, some who will be interns at Bastyr with me. This next year is the proving ground for us in our chosen field of dietetics, and I’m very excited and a little fearful, but mostly looking forward to this next challenge.

And now begins the rest of our lives. Congratulations everyone!