It’s graduation time again.

Commencement ceremonies for May and July graduates will be at 9:30 a.m. on May 20 and again at noon.

Graduates from the school of business, school of education, master degrees and bachelors of general studies will commence at the first session.

Graduates from the school of arts and sciences, school of technology and associate degrees will commence at the second session.

Rehearsal for graduates will be at 4 p.m. on May 16 in Leggett & Platt Athletic Center.

The day of the commencements, graduates are asked to arrive at minimum 30 minutes before the ceremony begins.

University President Julio León will host a reception after the ceremony to honor the graduates and their guests.

As seniors venture into a new life, they can reflect upon their undergraduate experience and look into the future.

Sara Salsbury, senior biology major, is reflecting upon her undergraduate experience and future plans.

“I am taking a year off before going to dental school,” she said. “I am very excited to be done finally.”

Salsbury said she has enjoyed her time at Southern. She said the opportunity to study abroad and to learn in a small class size surroundings have fostered her education.

“I really enjoyed being part of the honors program and the opportunities it provide,” Salsbury said. “I also enjoyed being part of the best department in the world – the biology department. My sidekick, Dr. J, (Dr. Jim Jackson) and I got in a little trouble, but had some fun times along the way.”

Jason Terry, freshman music major, said some of his friends are graduating this semester.

“I think graduation is like a new flower just opening up after the Spring rain,” Terry said. “It’s a sad, yet joyous time with more bittersweet moments to look back on. I am excited for the graduates; although, I will miss my senior friends.”

Terry said he can still recall his graduation experience last Spring.

“I just graduated from Purdy High School; therefore, I know how it feels to have senioritis,” he said. “I am just graduating from my first year of college.”

Terry said his first-year experience has been developing for him.

“My freshman experience has been like a bird weaning from its mother,” Terry said. “I cannot wait to see what the next three years have to offer me and how my feathers will grow.”