BU Class of 2024 Reflects on a Unique Four Years
From Masks to Mortarboards: BU Class of 2024 Reflects on a Unique Four Years
In this video, seniors talk about the challenges of starting college at the height of COVID and their hopes for a celebratory graduation
This video was first published in BU Today on May 15, 2024. Produced and edited by Victoria Lee (COM’24)
When the Boston University Class of 2024 began their college journey nearly four years ago, no one knew what to expect. The nation, and the world, was still in the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic. In a letter to the BU community just weeks before their arrival, Robert A. Brown, then BU president, wrote: “Life on campus will not look or be the same as it was last fall.”
What the freshmen encountered was a world of mandatory mask-wearing and testing, strict social distancing, and a hybrid learning model, known as Learn from Anywhere, that provided in-person and remote learning options. Even in the dining halls, it was grab and go. Students struggled with the isolation imposed by all the restrictions. The challenges were especially daunting for these freshmen, who had to grapple with how to make friends and launch their college careers under extraordinary conditions.
Yet, amid all the uncertainty, the Class of 2024 demonstrated remarkable resilience, quickly embracing online platforms for social interaction and discovering innovative ways to stay connected with one another.
The Class of 2024 demonstrated remarkable resilience, discovering new ways to stay connected with one another.
Now, as they prepare to graduate from BU, the Class of 2024 is looking forward to a celebratory Commencement—something most of them had to forego as high school seniors.
In this video, some soon-to-be graduates, including CFA student Julian Simmons (CFA’24) talk about their extraordinary college journey and reflect on what lies ahead. As they prepare to gather with family and friends on Nickerson Field May 19, they carry with them lessons learned, friendships forged, and the fighting spirit that has marked their four years here.