John & Anne Wiley

2010/06/14

Molly Walks & Flies

Yesterday our precious god-daughter Molly “walked” at UCSB. That’s the term students use to summarize donning the traditional black cap and gown with various garnishments signifying special achievements. I’m proud to note that her uniform additions included a special sash and braid. Her walk was amid the faculty and administrators, and her seat was on the stage where she was introduced and given an award before she walked again for the diploma.

6935 Humble Excellence

6935 Molly is modest, unassuming, sweet, kind, patient and considerate

It was inspiring to hear the speeches and see the grads getting ready for the next phase of their lives. The ceremony was especially moving for us, since she flew out of SBA headed for Paris only a few hectic hours later. Oh how we will miss her!

As you might have noticed on the aerial photo, the audience included people watching from outside the seating area.

6963 Overflow

6963 Overflow

Some couldn’t get seats, and maybe others wanted a head-start on the massive end of ceremony exodus.

All over Isla Vista, both before and after this one among the series of many ceremonies, students were moving out. At the same time, new students were scoping out the logistics of moving in. Grads were selling furniture that incoming students were buying. With such a massive turnover of residents going on, I.V. was some combination of a bizarre swap meet, curbside estate recycling, hellos, goodbyes, and transcendent stress; all flowing in an easy dance of worry and compassion.

Having also attended the Masters Degree award of precious niece Erin a few years ago, UCSB has been forever transformed for us. Flying over, bicycling or strolling the area evokes strong memories and feelings, along with the stunning beauty of the place.

6013 I.V. & UCSB

6013 I.V. & UCSB

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