Commencement ceremonies get their name from the understanding that once one has achieved a certain degree of training and education, that achievement paves the way for a new beginning. For countless students across the U.S., the next few weeks mark a time of celebrating achievements and an end to another stage of one’s education, as well as a time to move forward with those newfound skills and training.
Graduation may elicit feelings of nostalgia, excitement, anxiety, or hope, and during this time, people may turn to poetry to express whatever feelings they may associate with the diploma and the cap and gown. Whether you know a graduate or you yourself are celebrating a commencement, browse our new selection of poems for graduation, from verses on nostalgia to words of guidance on the future, moving forward, and new beginnings.