By Youssef Bashir

A sense of achievement and pride still lingers in the air at Middlesex University following last week’s ceremonies, where hundreds of graduates dressed in caps and gowns gathered to celebrate their hard-earned achievements. It is not an exaggeration to say that the 2025 Graduation Week marked the culmination of years of dedication for all kinds of students.

The atmosphere was electric as graduates filled all corners of campus, their faces beaming with excitement, this long-awaited moment finally here. As they were entering the College Building after their respective ceremonies, posing for photos with family and friends alike by the decorative balloon walls, and maybe getting themselves a memento or two by the Student Union’s stand, we caught up with some graduates to hear their thoughts on the day and their time at Middlesex.

“I was anxious on how the experience was going to be,” said Samson Kunkwenzu, now a Nursing Associate, when asked about his time at Middlesex. “Because anything you’ve never done before sounds so hard in your own mind at first.” When asked what advice he would give to future students, he added his positive twist: “If you study hard, everything falls into place, it makes sense, and you’ll make it. Nothing comes easy, but with the help of the university, your family, your friends, and your own hard work, you’ll make it.”

For Adult Nursing graduate Renee Ordonio, the day went by in a blur. When asked how she found the ceremony, she described it as “Quick and fast,” hoping the moment could have lasted a while longer. While she expressed enjoyment regarding the day, she did go on to advise future students to “Be prepared emotionally, because it’s overwhelming.”

On the other hand, Learning and Teaching graduate Nicole Cottrell kept it short and sweet through describing the ceremony by saying “It was energetic, it was fun, and it was inclusive.” Nicole’s tip for future students? “Enjoy every moment, take every opportunity possible, and don’t forget to have fun.”

Last but not least, Professional Aviation Pilot Practice graduate Euan Watt praised the organisation of the event by saying: “The lead-up was really smooth, like a well-oiled machine, from getting your pictures taken, to the tickets and robes.” His one tip for future graduates on their own ceremony day is to always remember “It’s a day for enjoying, not stressing.”

As each and every ceremony drew to a close, and the graduates gradually made their way out of the university, surrounded by loved ones, it was clear that this batch of graduates had not only gained their degrees, but also friendships to last a lifetime. Here’s to the next chapter for our newest alumni — and to all the students who will follow in their footsteps.