The Graduate at Graduation is a new series of community events that aims to highlight the stories of us, Blue Streaks. The series is a platform to meet members of the JCU community and to share the stories that have shaped us all as men and women with and for others.

The Grad at Grad series aims to share “the things we’ve learned and the things we wish we would have known.” Senior Kelly Fichtner says that it is a “really unique opportunity to connect with your classmates in a totally different way than before.”

There are a lot of great events on campus and many amazing organizations, whether they be athletic, professional or academic — there are a bunch of them. But one of the biggest things that I realized is that there wasn’t one connecting all of them. As a senior, I have had some amazing opportunities, none of which would be possible without the guidance of upperclassmen that came before me. This is why I created the Graduate at Graduation series.

I had some time this past winter break to reflect on my four years: the good, the bad, the ugly and everything in between. I got thinking that if I had heard stories or experiences from upperclassmen as a younger student on campus, I would have been able to learn a lot more. As junior Danny DiMillo puts it, “This series allows me to hear unique stories of upperclassmen and connect with fellow Blue Streaks while reflecting on my time at John Carroll.”

I discerned and realized that I wasn’t the only one that has a story to share — that there were more seniors that felt the same way. They have things to say and share, and so did I. I created this platform in an effort to help our younger students on campus find their way sooner, to learn about the amazing things that John Carroll has to offer and, as junior Mark Grabowski put it, “It gives seniors the opportunity to share their story and express to the JCU community that they are not going through something unusual.” Hence, the Grad at Grad series was born.

Whether you are a student, a faculty member, a coach or anywhere in between — all are welcome. No registration needed, no formal attire needed, the only thing needed is a willingness to listen and maybe even share a story of your own. The final event for the semester will be Tuesday, April 30, at 9 p.m. in Rodman A. This must-attend event is a great way to wrap up the semester.