Graduation - is it worth it for a mature student?
I have to book my graduation by the end of the week but really going off the idea. I am 44 years old, proud that I've achieved a first class nursing degree, but the hours it takes for a matter of seconds on a stage and obviously the cost is really putting me off attending. My mum is on holiday and there is only my husband to attend who will be sat on his own knowing no-one else also makes me feel guilty. Is it really worth it?
Reply 1
Hi @DellyWelly
Totally understand your hesitation, especially with the costs involved. But if you can make it work, I’d really encourage you to go! It’s such a lovely way to mark everything you’ve accomplished and to see your peers and lecturers again — catching up, hearing what everyone’s doing now, and sharing that sense of celebration together.
When I attended mine, it honestly was one of the best days of my life — and it was a while ago now, but I still remember it vividly. You only get the opportunity to do it once (unless you go on to further study), and it really does feel like a milestone worth marking.
There are also some nice touches that make the day memorable, like photo opportunities and seeing your name in the graduation programme. Even if it’s just your husband there, it’s still your moment — and plenty of students attend with just one guest or even on their own and have a great time.
Many ceremonies are recorded or streamed too, so you can share it later with family who couldn’t attend.
Whatever you decide, you’ve worked incredibly hard to get here — a first-class nursing degree is something to be really proud of!
Megan (LJMU Rep)
Totally understand your hesitation, especially with the costs involved. But if you can make it work, I’d really encourage you to go! It’s such a lovely way to mark everything you’ve accomplished and to see your peers and lecturers again — catching up, hearing what everyone’s doing now, and sharing that sense of celebration together.
When I attended mine, it honestly was one of the best days of my life — and it was a while ago now, but I still remember it vividly. You only get the opportunity to do it once (unless you go on to further study), and it really does feel like a milestone worth marking.
There are also some nice touches that make the day memorable, like photo opportunities and seeing your name in the graduation programme. Even if it’s just your husband there, it’s still your moment — and plenty of students attend with just one guest or even on their own and have a great time.
Many ceremonies are recorded or streamed too, so you can share it later with family who couldn’t attend.
Whatever you decide, you’ve worked incredibly hard to get here — a first-class nursing degree is something to be really proud of!
Megan (LJMU Rep)
Reply 2
Did you decide if you’re going or not? I’m in the same boat. I’m also a mature student (43) my graduation ceremony is next week. I was so excited for it but now the time has come I really can’t be bothered attending. My parents aren’t in the best of health to attend so it would just be my son and my friend would come too. Having to be there first thing in the morning too, I really can’t be bothered. I’ve proud of my achievement but the ceremony seems pretty pointless to me now.
Reply 3
Original post
by Roxy2025Did you decide if you’re going or not? I’m in the same boat. I’m also a mature student (43) my graduation ceremony is next week. I was so excited for it but now the time has come I really can’t be bothered attending. My parents aren’t in the best of health to attend so it would just be my son and my friend would come too. Having to be there first thing in the morning too, I really can’t be bothered. I’ve proud of my achievement but the ceremony seems pretty pointless to me now.
Hello,
I'd say definitely go even if no one showed up. You've worked so hard for 3 years and it's only fair that you see the outcome and celebrate it in a gown. The pictures can be framed and kept forever as well 🤗.
-Sarah (Kingston Rep)
Reply 4
Original post
by Roxy2025Did you decide if you’re going or not? I’m in the same boat. I’m also a mature student (43) my graduation ceremony is next week. I was so excited for it but now the time has come I really can’t be bothered attending. My parents aren’t in the best of health to attend so it would just be my son and my friend would come too. Having to be there first thing in the morning too, I really can’t be bothered. I’ve proud of my achievement but the ceremony seems pretty pointless to me now.
Most unis livestream the graduation so your parents could watch online.
My husband attended his graduation last year at the age of 47, and I attended mine 2 months ago at the age of 41.
You only live once - go for it! You've earned it!
You only live once - go for it! You've earned it!
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