The Guilfordian

Issue date: 4/29/05 Section: Features

Media Credit: www.barefootcoaching.co.uk Commencement for Early College seniors is May 27

The Early College (EC), begun in 2003, has always had a unique series of traditions for its graduates. Beginning with planned meetings and ending with after-parties, students have always found their own ways to make this experience one that they will never forget.

In 2003, the group of graduates met to discuss and plan the ceremony that would mark the end of the first year EC at Guilford College.

"Since only nine people were graduating, we didn't really have any special events to lead up to the ceremony," said EC graduate Carol Iglesia ('03). These nine seniors, the first to receive EC diplomas, began traditions that would be in place years to come.

Those nine students graduated barefoot on the Guilford lawn in early May. "It was a beautiful ceremony, unlike most high school graduations which are held in overcrowded auditoriums," said Iglesia. "We went barefoot kind of on a whim after David Boy ('03) suggested it. Even though we had all of our families and friends there, and we were wearing basically prom attire, the whole event seemed un-intimidating."

In 2004, a larger group of 20 students gathered to plan their ceremony, including a senior banquet where each graduate received a personalized superlative and matching certificate. Preceding the ceremony, the seniors, along with Kathy Adams (EC liaison to Guilford College) and Tony Burks (principal of Early College), went to a lunch at Revival Grill.

The seniors decided to continue the barefoot tradition; however, not everyone participated. In addition, the seniors graduated in maroon-colored robes - the EC colors are maroon and pewter.

"The intimacy of a small graduating class and the Guilford College campus makes it relaxed and interesting rather than a long and boring process," said EC graduate Heather Wunner ('04). "The Early College experience makes graduation unique. I feel that it is up to your class to make graduation what you dream."

This year, the EC graduates of 2005 have a few new ideas to add to the growing traditions. While going barefoot will still be an option for those who want to participate, a great deal of students will likely remain in shod.

One thing in particular that makes this year's graduating class special is their robe selection. Not every student agreed on the maroon-colored robes from last year, but they weren't able to agree on any other single color either.

Continued...

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