To The Class of 2023

Some Advice From Our Professors

By Kayla Jovel, Staff Writer

As graduation season has arrived, our seniors are preparing for their futures. Whether they are going to graduate school, entering corporate America, starting their own business or still trying to figure out their next steps, our Lynn professors have some final words of advice for the graduating class.

“Every year, there is something special about the graduating class,” said Gary Carlin, Associate Professor, Advertising and Public Relations. “This year is the class that survived the COVID years. In my opinion, students have come out stronger and more resilient because of it. This graduating class had to adapt to the change to remote and back to in person. On top of everything else that was going on in the world, students were able to focus on their class work and make the most out of the tough situation.”

“I see the students as a continuous flow of similar ages and abilities,” said Dr. Paul Gormley, Professor, Criminal Justice Administration Chair. “There are always individual students with whom I have the honor and pleasure of building a closer connection. I always remember those students. This class had a hard time — graduating high school and/or starting college during the pandemic, and any rules in place because of it (masks, distancing, no group gatherings, etc.), political unrest, changing economy, and so much more. The class is tired, but not beaten. They’ve had to deal with so much more.”

“I encourage students to be curious, to be hungry, and to be passionate about things that they love and enjoy,” said Dr. Timea Varga, Assistant Professor, Dialogues. “Most importantly, I hope that they never stop learning about themselves and never give up pursuing their dreams. This is an exciting time in graduates’ lives, a new beginning with so many possible paths. I encourage students not to be scared but rather, enjoy every day of this journey called life!”

“There will be good times. There will be hard times,” said Gormley. “Find someone to share life with. Treat that person well. Do not tolerate someone who does not treat you well. All things pass — good times, hard times, all pass. Enjoy those good times and make them last as long as possible. Do not make yourself miserable about the hard times. They are preparation to make you appreciate the good times.”

We all know it was a struggle to enter college because of the constant hurdles the Class of 2023 faced, from the pandemic to virtual lessons. This class has overcome these challenges with flying colors. So if you are not sure what is next and are heading to a graduate porgram or are entirely unsure of your next move, this is for you.

“Take a deep breath. Everything will work out over time, said Carlin. “Be confident that the future will bring great things. It might not happen quickly. Be patient and stay focused on what makes you happy.”

“All of life is unknown. It is impossible to know the outcome of the decisions you make now. Make the best decisions you can, based on the information available to you at the time,” said Gormley. “Celebrate the good decisions and outcomes, and get through the bad decisions and outcomes. I changed my degree choice several times in college and did not do any of the things I planned. I have changed my career several times, too. Do not be afraid of change, do not stress yourself. You are never alone. You have friends and family who care about you and want to help you succeed. Lean on them and, when they need it, let them lean on you. Whatever hard time you think awaits you after your degree, it will pass.”

“It is OK not to have a clear plan right after graduation,” said Dr. Stefanie Powers, Associate Dean and Associate Professor. “Take the time to explore your options and be open to new opportunities.”

“Be open to all different industries,” said Carlin. “You never know where your career will take you. I never sought out to be in the toy industry, it just happened and I loved it. Follow your passion, the money will follow.”  

“Persistence,” said Gormley. “Keep applying. Keep learning. Develop new knowledge. Develop new skills. I was on the job market two years after completing my doctorate before I landed at Lynn. Those two years were tough, but I had the support of friends and family. You WILL find the right place for you, even if you have to try a couple of times.”

Lynn is filled with students from all over the world, and we did not forget about them. For those who called Lynn their home away from home, we hope you cherish your final moments at the university.

“As a former international student, I encourage all graduating international students to leave no stone unturned,” said Varga. “If you plan to stay in the U.S., use your Optional Practical Training  to gain some industry experience, work hard and don’t lose sight of your goals. If you plan to return home, leverage all the experiences from your time at Lynn and make the best of it all. Either way, the sky’s the limit!”

“Carry with you the good times and friends you made here,” said Gormley. “Keep in touch. We still care — even after you leave campus. Let us know what we can learn from you as you go out into the world with your degree, skills, and abilities. You should not let your place in the world be static. Don’t let us be static in your past, either. Tell us what you learn and do out there!”

Congratulations, Class of 2023! You did it! We hope that with this great accomplishment, you will continue to use what Lynn has taught you and remain resilient. To all the graduates, you have reached a significant milestone in your life, so hold on to the moment! Continue to dream big and pursue your passions.

As for our senior writers at iPulse, there is one last message from:

“First of all, thank you for all your work! It was such a pleasure seeing students grow in my short time with iPulse,” said Varga. “I hope that you never lose the love for writing, reporting, broadcasting or being communicators. Try to do the best in everything you do and really apply yourself to gain a competitive edge in your industry. Be hungry, push yourself, and you will succeed. A communication degree and background open so many doors, so don’t be afraid to walk right in!”

Congratulations and best of luck to the Class of 2023!