Dear Class of 2020, We Are Sorry!
Canceled proms, graduation, events, and celebrations
Dear 2020 graduates,
This was supposed to be your time to shine. Many of you worked all your life for this moment. You pulled many all-nighters. You studied hard. You participated in numerous clubs and organizations. You completed all course and elective requirements to graduate.
You were supposed to go through senior year with your closest friends by your side. You were supposed to attend social gatherings and create new memories. You were supposed to celebrate major milestones and let everyone know the amazing achievements you accomplished. But then COVID-19 hit.
Yes, you were robbed. And no, you do not deserve it. It is okay to be angry or upset! It may feel like the end of the world, but know that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
Sorry that your family does not get to see you walk
This was supposed to be a pivotal moment in your life. Your family and friends were supposed to scream at the top of their lungs when they heard your name announced during graduation. You were supposed to proudly strut across the stage and grab that diploma with both of your hands. You were supposed to sit among all the other well-deserved graduates, reminiscing your most fond memories. Once the ceremony was over, you were supposed to be showered with love. You were supposed to take hundreds of photos that you will be able to look back and remember.
My heart goes out to all of you, especially the first-generation students. For many of you, your family came to the United States so you could have a better future. They left their home country so you could have an education. Your parents waited all their lives for this moment — to see you walk across the stage. That was all taken away… but it will be okay.
Nothing can take away how proud your friends and family are for all of your accomplishments!
Sorry for the terrible job outlook
According to Yahoo! Finance, 26 million people filed jobless claims amind Coronavirus as of April 18, 2020.
- 3,307,000 million people filed jobless claims week ending March 21, 2020
- 6,867,000 million people filed jobless claims week ending March 28, 2020
- 6,615,000 million people filed jobless claims week ending April 4, 2020
- 5,237,000 million people filed jobless claims week ending April 11, 2020
- 4,427,000 million people filed jobless claims week ending April 18, 2020
These numbers are scary and only projected to increase. What does this mean? More competition for the already small number of jobs available. Many companies paused hiring until the end of the year. Many of you will struggle to find a job. We are sorry that this is what you are diving into headfirst right out of school.
Just know that it will get better! We got through 2008 and we can get through 2020.
My advice to recent graduates:
- Keep making memories with your friends and family. Celebrate even if it’s via Zoom or Facetime. Send handwritten letters, emails, and text messages. Stay connected with your loved ones during this difficult time.
- Create a LinkedIn profile if you do not already have one. Connect with people in your field. Join a few groups related to your area of interest. People love to help and give their advice, especially to new graduates.
- Continuously look for ways to improve your knowledge. Although school may have ended, always look for ways to further your education. Coursera and Udemy are great resources for online learning. Pick up something new to show off to future employers.
- Plan for your rebound. Once society goes back to normal, what are your goals? What do you want to do with your life? Write them out and pin them on your wall. That way you can hold your “future self” accountable.
- And lastly, thank and hug your parents. Show them your appreciation. They deserve it!
Similar to many of you reading this letter, my last year of grad school was cut short. My MBA commencement was supposed to take place mid-April of 2020, but given the current situation, it was canceled. I definitely went through the five stages of grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance.
Know that you are not alone and it is perfectly normal. We worked hard and deserve all of the recognition. We will get through this!
I hope you all continue to take care of yourself.
Sincerely,
Another 2020 graduate
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