On June 20th, about 15 MSC to-be graduates participated in Northwestern University’s 156th Annual Commencement.  We all met at Francis Searle, helped one another figure out how to wear our ‘hoods’, took photos, met family members, and then hopped on the shuttle bus to Ryan Field. Upon arriving at the field, we became part of the ‘purple sea’ of undergraduate students, graduate students and doctoral students. The energy was electrifying.  Huge accomplishments were being recognized and honored at this ceremony. The sense of pride from the students, families, friends and faculty members was palpable. MSC sat in a group with Northwestern’s School of Communication, distinguishable by the silver tassels that all of us wore. We listened to Chicago Symphony Orchestra music director, Riccardo Muti address the crowd with a light-hearted, encouraging message.  After the ceremony concluded, we turned in our robes, went our separate ways, and mentally began to ‘gear up’ for our last term as MSC students at Northwestern.  Today, we have just 39 days left until we officially receive our diplomas and graduate with our Master degrees.  Can’t wait!