The Shorthorn - No Time Like Today

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No Time Like Today

Written by A.J. Eaton
Wednesday, 01 August 2007 11:00 PM
No matter when it is or what path they took to get here, students are excited to graduate this summer Jennifer Rojas, center, graduates with a biology degree this summer. Rojas is a widow raising four kids, from left, Xavier, Inola, Jenneyda and Zhané. Rojas balanced going to school full time with working two jobs. The Shorthorn: Robert Rodriguez While at the university, students have to study, read, toil and attend lectures and labs. At times, it seems there is no end in sight. For those who are diligent, sweet salvation and a great victory can be found in graduation. Associate registrar Robert Gunip said that about 800 undergraduates will receive their bachelor’s degrees this summer. While that number seems small compared to the 1,400 who graduated in fall ’06 and the 1,800 in spring ’07, the moment is no less important to summer grads. For many, walking across the stage, flipping that tassel to the other side and tossing up the cap means more than mere words can express. Biology senior Jennifer Rojas’ college career was anything but traditional. Over the course of 11 years, she attended school, gave birth to four children and lost her husband in a work-related accident. Rojas will be the first member of her family to graduate with a bachelor’s degree and will soon apply to medical school. “It doesn’t matter if it’s spring, fall or summer. To me personally, the important thing is having all of my family there to support me in my achievement,” she said. “It’s a big deal because despite everything, I’ve achieved my goal.” Other graduates share her sentiments. Communication senior Bryant Robertson is happy to graduate during the summer because more of his family can attend. He is excited that his cousins can come, since they are out of school for the summer. “In the back of your mind, it’s a little nontraditional,” he said. Communication senior Bryant Robertson graduates this summer and was active in many aspects of university life, including Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity president, UTA ambassador and Mr. NAACP. Robertson was given the highest honor a student leader can receive, the Matthew E. Brown Leadership Award. The Shorthorn: Robert Rodriguez The former Mr. UTA participated in numerous roles at the university, including Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity president, UTA Ambassador and Mr. NAACP for the campus chapter. In recognition of his contributions, he was awarded the Matthew E. Brown Leadership Award. The award is the highest honor a student leader can receive. “One thing I’ve learned about UTA over the years is that we do things a little different than most four-year universities, and that’s what I like about this school,” Robertson said. After graduation, Robertson will work in Campus Recreation. He is happy to graduate but will miss being a student, he said. “My time here has made me the man I am,” he said. “I’ve met so many people ... all different kinds of people, and learned so much about myself here.” While some students may not want to graduate in the smaller summer ceremony, those graduating are just happy they get to finally walk that stage.
Last Updated ( Wednesday, 11 June 2008 02:23 PM )

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Commencement Schedule

All ceremonies will take place December 10 -14 in Texas Hall at 701 W. Nedderman Drive.

Thursday, December 10
School of Nursing - 7 p.m.

Friday, December 11
School of Social Work and University Studies - 11:30 a.m.
School of Architechure - 3 p.m.
School of Urban and Public Affairs - 7 p.m.

Saturday, December 12
College of Engineering - 9 a.m.
College of Liberal Arts - 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, December 13
College of Business - 12:30 and 4 p.m.

Monday, December 14
College of Science - 3 p.m.
College of Education and Health Professions - 7 p.m.

Graduate School

Baccalaureate Degrees