As college campuses across the United States become battlegrounds for protests, students face a tumultuous end to their academic journeys. For many seniors, this disruption mirrors the upheaval experienced during their final months of high school amidst the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Now, as they approach graduation, they find themselves grappling with renewed challenges. Madison Morris, a 22-year-old student at the University of Texas, recounts the distressing sight of fellow protesters being forcibly removed by police.
These harrowing scenes have overshadowed what should have been celebratory moments, leaving Madison unable to fully embrace her achievements.
Similarly, Craig Birckhead-Morton, a 21-year-old student at Yale University, faces uncertainty regarding his graduation prospects after being among those arrested during the protests. The potential repercussions, including the possibility of not receiving diplomas or final transcripts, cast a shadow over what should be a joyous occasion.
Meanwhile, Melissa Manesh, a 21-year-old student at the University of Southern California, expresses frustration over the disruption caused by the protests. She highlights the impact on student life, with libraries closed and heightened tensions on campus, particularly for Jewish students who feel targeted and unsafe.
For these seniors, the protests have tainted their final days on campus, robbing them of the closure and celebration they had eagerly awaited. As they navigate these challenging times, they grapple with the loss of cherished moments and the uncertainty of what lies ahead in their academic and personal journeys.