Seniors prepare to turn tassles

After all the finals, group projects and term papers have been turned in, Saturday’s commencement ceremony will mark the end of an era for thousands of IU students.\n“I’m a little nervous because it’s a new step in my life and I won’t be around all of the people I know,” senior Angela Li said.\nDue to the large number of graduating students, IU will hold two separate commencement services on Sunday, May 5, in Assembly Hall. The first ceremony is scheduled for 10 a.m., and the second ceremony for 3 p.m.\nAccording to press releases, IU-Bloomington accounts for only a fraction of the 19,535 students who are eligible to receive degrees on IU’s eight campuses this May. For IU-Bloomington, 8,229 students are eligible to receive degrees and step out into the real world\n“We try to make the ceremony a little more personal by holding two services,” said Bill Elliott, director of ceremonies. \nElliot said that students earning their Ph.D. will have their names announced as they walk across stage. All other degrees will be announced according to the school and asked to stand up.\nMost schools have separate recognition ceremonies and luncheons to give the students more personal attention, Elliot said.\nThe ceremony will begin with IU President Adam Herbert’s charge to the class, with words of inspiration addressing the conclusion of their college careers.\nInterim-Provost Michael McRobbie will then present to the class, and will speak about their unique features and accomplishments.\nNext, the deans of each school will come to the stage to call the students. \n“It is an exciting time for students, it’s a celebration,” Elliot said. \nDespite all the exuberance, Elliot said there are few problems with behavior aside from a few beach balls or shouts of joy.\n“They are just showing how excited they are,” Elliot said. “There isn’t anything that is too offensive.”\nTavis Smiley will give the commencement address to the graduating class. Smiley is an IU alumnus who is also an author, radio personality, and motivational speaker.\nSmiley attended IU on a debate scholarship, overcoming obstacles along the way. The native of Kokomo, Ind., is the first African-American to simultaneously host two talk shows. \nElliot said Smiley should speak for about 15 minutes, giving advice and an inspiring message to seniors.\nDuring the afternoon ceremony, Jeri Taylor will receive an honorary degree. Taylor is a television scriptwriter and producer best known for her contributions to the Star Trek series. She received her bachelor of arts degree from IU, and will receive the Doctor of Human Letters. \nAs Li looks forward to Saturday’s festivities, she admits that life will be different after officially receiving her diploma. \n“It’s going to be a whole new life and I am going to miss this place, I had a great time here,” she said. “But I am excited to see what the future holds for me.”