Sarah’s Blog Post 22: March 4, 2016
Congratulations to the Fujimura Girls’ High School Class of 2016. That is what we would say to the graduating class of seniors in the United States. I am so proud of each of our students and know that they will be leaving school to do great things. Since my arrival in August, I have come to know how dedicated Fujimura girls can be and it is inspiring. Even though I didn’t teach any third year classes, I got to meet some of the third years in International Club. I am very sad that we won’t get to see them next year, but I am very happy for them. I wish all of the graduating third years good luck in their future endeavors and am excited for all of the new third years (this year’s second years) to begin their final year of school next month.
Graduation in the United States, much like many other things, is much louder than in Japan. Parents and friends clap for each student as they receive their diplomas, and almost every graduation ceremony plays “Pomp and Circumstance” in the background. Since many schools do not have uniforms, we wear a graduation cap and graduation gown over our clothes. Both boys and girls wear the same graduation cap and gown. I am not sure about other Japanese schools, but in the United States, it is common for graduation ceremonies to be held outside as well. My graduating class was about 600 students, so it would have been difficult to fit everyone inside of our gym. The biggest difference is that graduation occurs in late May or the middle of June in the United States. Despite these differences, the feelings are very much the same. We cry because we are sad to leave and we are happy because of everything that has been accomplished.
So, I would like to say congratulations, one last time.
