My University Is Limiting How Many People Can See Me Graduate And I Am Not Happy About It

This year the University of Florida decided that instead of having all colleges graduate from the O'Connell Center (basketball arena) that we would have one big ceremony then smaller ceremonies with individual recognition.

THIS IS A BIG DEAL.

For so many UF Students, the time and place, being recognized in front of thousands of people is what we dreamed of when thinking about our college graduation. We couldn't wait for our families to see us with our cap and gown, being conferred a degree that we worked so hard for.

This year that dream won't be a reality. For so many students, including myself, we will be recognized in small rooms around campus with our colleges.

I love my college. Don't get me wrong. I am so happy to be walking across a stage with my friends that I have come to love. But the small rooms offered to smaller colleges such as mine create one big problem.

I received an email earlier this semester stating that tickets for family members and friends will be limited for my college's graduation ceremony.

Um... what?

How does that work? How do I decide who I want to be there when I graduate? I have divorced and remarried parents. I have a large family. How do I decide who is "more deserving" of being there on my special day?

It's now the end of October and I still don't know how many people I can bring to my college graduation. I don't know if my entire family will be allowed in the room to see me walk across a stage.

UF... this is not okay. Students pay so much money to attend this university and now we are put in such a hard position. Thanks for making it hard to be a Gator.