On Friday, May 8, 2020, my friend Courtney Brook Althoff graduated with her Bachelor’s in Computer Animation from Full Sail University (based out of Florida). While the college offers programs suitable for “online education,” participating in an “online” platform (including a grad ceremony) wasn’t anything new to her.
However, roughly this same time last year I graduated from Sac State celebrating with the largest cohort of grads, a milestone that should and was celebrated with family and friends and in-person. I asked Courtney if I could participate in her “online celebration” and knowing that it would be a stark contrast in how one would celebrate such a momentous accomplishment, I felt the disappointment for the lack of celebratory spirit. It’s not anything Courtney would have wished for since Courtney carries a bubbly personality. She would have celebrated with a bang! In fact, she mentioned that she and her select loved ones were already booked for a flight to Florida for the in-person graduation ceremony but due to state lock downs, cancellations for travel were eminent and thankfully she did receive full refunds for. She does plan to attend a future grad ceremony should the opportunity present itself but with the uncertainty of this pandemic, who knows when that will be.
It’s the matter of the times—THE COVID ERA!
Courtney Althoff, a college student from Full Sail University (Florida-based College) awaits for her name to be announced during an online graduation ceremony Friday May 8, 2020. Orangevale, Ca © Ryan Angel Meza
Due to Covid-19, Courtney is graduating at home. Friday, May 8, 2020. © Ryan Angel Meza
Lisa, (Courtney’s mother) accompanies Courtney as they wait for the ceremony to begin. Friday, May 8, 2020.
© Ryan Angel Meza
At last, the moment to hear “Courtney Brook Althoff” among the list of grads celebrating this long-awaited accomplishment. Friday, May 8, 2020. © Ryan Angel Meza
Brian, fiance to Courtney, celebrates with a toast of champagne. Friday, May 8, 2020. © Ryan Angel Meza
