Commencement on the Quad at Kalamazoo College.
Spring term finals are over. Kalamazoo College’s faculty and staff are preparing for Commencement. And seniors, through a traditional rehearsal, have received their last instructions for Sunday’s ceremony. To help smooth the students’ transitions away from undergraduate life, we asked some faculty and staff who are K alumni themselves to share what advice they would go back and give themselves as they graduated.
Here’s what they had to say of that advice. We hope it will be valuable for the class of 2022.
Professor of History Charlene Boyer Lewis ’87
“Remember that no matter how carefully you plan for the future, something is going to come along to change your plans—and sometimes that change will be amazing!”
Enrollment Systems Manager Dan Kibby ’91
“Looking back, I cannot remember a single instance where I later wished I’d been less kind.”
Kalamazoo College Chaplain Liz Candido ’00
shake hands with President Jorge G. Gonzalez, receive
their diploma, move their tassel and have their picture
taken while crossing the stage.
“Be imperfect. Some of the best things in my life have come as the result of some screw-up or mistake. Lose your fear of doing it wrong or incorrectly, and let yourself blunder into something unexpected and wonderful!”
Web Content Specialist Martin Hansknecht ’20
“Know that the skills you developed while at K are deeply transferable across industries, and be open to the curve balls life throws at you. But before that, take time to celebrate all you have accomplished during your four years at K—even though it may feel self-indulgent to celebrate anything positive during the dawn of a pandemic.”
Admission Counselor Lezlie Lull ’20
“Say yes. Visit your friends. Enjoy your weekends. As you transition into a new life stage, take your time and enjoy the small moments, and don’t forget to visit your parents!”
We’re excited for the class of 2022 to join the ranks of our alumni!