Grads reflect, reminisce at senior send off

For graduating seniors, college may be over, but their new lives are just beginning.

The West Virginia University Erickson Alumni Center hosted the 13th annual Senior Send-Off: Zero Year Reunion Thursday night. At the event, graduating seniors had an opportunity to enjoy food, entertainment and prizes while reminiscing with classmates.

"This is a good transition. It’s great to meet with friends one last time and learn about the alumni association," said Tara Curtis, director of communications at the alumni center.

All graduating seniors receive one free year of membership in the WVU Alumni Association, and Curtis encourages graduates to stay active in the association.

"Lots of students get job offers through alumni. You never know where you could meet someone who can land you a job," she said.

Admission was free for the event, and dinner was provided. Students also received vouchers for two free drinks at the bar, and beer on tap was available.

Participants’ names were put into a raffle for prizes including season basketball and football tickets, WVU apparel and an iPad.

Pennsylvania-based guitarist Jackson Mansour provided live music for the event.

Many students attending were inspired to reflect on their college careers.

"I can’t believe it’s over. I can’t believe I’m going to be walking across that stage soon," said Joshua Walters, a graduating public relations student.

"When I came here, I didn’t know anyone, and now the friendships I made here will last a lifetime," he said. "I love the atmosphere of the campus and football games, and the best part was all the friends I made here."

Graduating multidisciplinary studies student Stacy Schiffbauer has a unique perspective about her college career.

"I know it might sound weird, but I loved the long nights spent studying," she said. "Because afterward I would meet up with friends and go get something to eat and stay out late - stuff like that. I love the college experience," she said.

Schiffbauer said she plans to work in student housing after graduation.

"Once you enter the workforce, you can’t have late nights like that anymore," she said.

Jon Dubble, a graduating sport management student, was conflicted about the future.

"It’s both amazing and scary at the same time," he said.

He has started searching for a job and said he hopes to work for a major league sports team.

"It feels great to go on with my life and get out in the real world, but with this job market, life seems a little scary. I’m hopeful, though," he said.

For more information about the alumni association or post-graduation life, visit alumni.wvu.edu/new-grad.