Dear Parents and Families of Students in the Class of 2024:
Yes! We’re in the last semester for the class of 2024. Every time I think about it, Europe’s hit “The Final Countdown” from the “Rocky” movie series comes to mind. There is a special feeling in the air. From the many meetings I had with students last semester, I know that excitement is building in anticipation of this next step as students make final checks on their degree requirements. While many students are still uncertain about where they will be or what they will be doing at this time next year, there is nonetheless a shared sense of confidence and optimism as to what the future has in store.
Amid the excitement, members of the Class of 2024 still need to attend to the day-to-day business of being a college senior. Some will use this semester to continue research for their senior theses or other capstone experiences, some will be enrolled in the final courses required to complete their majors, some will be working on applications for jobs or graduate school, and some will be using the semester as a final opportunity to take courses in previously unexplored corners of the curriculum. The Gordon Career Center is a valuable resource for seniors as they plan their next steps, so please encourage your students to take advantage of their services.
The semester begins on January 25, and spring break will occur Saturday, March 9 through Sunday, March 24. Now is a good time to check in with your student about spring break and graduation plans. I have been sending seniors a steady stream of email messages regarding degree requirements, major certification, how to confirm the name they would like to be printed on their diploma, etc. For more information and answers to questions about graduation, please see the Commencement 2024 website. Throughout the rest of the semester, I will be contacting the class regarding senior receptions, providing information about purchasing caps and gowns, and simply congratulating each of them on work well done while here at Wesleyan.
The Commencement ceremony itself will be on Sunday, May 26; no tickets or reservations are required to attend. Seating is unlimited and available on a first come first served basis, so if you want a good seat, be sure to arrive early. Please be aware that if it rains, the ceremony may be abbreviated and seating under the tent will be limited.
In the meantime, if you have any questions or concerns about the senior year or Commencement, please do not hesitate to get in touch with me.
Best wishes,
Bill Bisese
Class Dean, Class of 2024