settling down

An Open Letter to the Class of 2020

Dear Class of 2020,

Here’s to us! I know this is not what we envisioned when we thought of how our graduation would go. I know that some of you probably thought that the worst that could happen would be tripping over your heels as you walked to get your diploma. I was a transfer student to my university, and I ended up graduating in December. I planned on going back to my campus in May for the commencement, but obviously that plan has changed now. 

This might seem rough now, but it just shows that we’re one of the most resilient classes to graduate so far. Not many classes can say that celebrating graduation came to a sudden halt. However, despite all that, I hope everyone is still able to celebrate in some way. I recently attended the Her Campus Graduation in which Amani Al-Khatahtbeh, Liam Payne, and even The Jonas Brothers made an appearance. Although I am lucky that my university is hosting its own commencement this week, I’m aware that many of you are not given that chance. 

This might seem rough now, but it just shows that we’re one of the most resilient classes to graduate so far.

If your school hasn’t found a way to a celebrate, don’t worry; there are some options! For those of you who don’t know, former President Barack Obama and former FLOTUS Michelle Obama are hosting a virtual commencement on June 6th, 2020 on YouTube. There will also be performances from BTS and Lady Gaga. So far, another confirmed speaker is Malala Yousufzai. You can even write a note to a 2020 graduate here.

There’s this quote from Boy Meets World that has always resonated with me, and that is: “Dream. Try. Do good.” I believe it’s a mantra you can believe in during these unprecedented times. Mabrook to the Class of 2020, wherever you are in the world, and for those of you who are celebrating Ramadan – we are in the last 10 days! Let’s make the most of it.

Assalamu Alaikum!

If you are celebrating Ramadan, be sure to read this article to learn nine ways you can (inshallah!) maximize your worship in these last 10 days.