FORT PIERCE, Fla. — The coronavirus pandemic has prevented so many students across the country from being able to celebrate their hard work.
Graduation ceremonies at IRSC for the spring and summer semesters were both canceled.
On Wednesday, the college announced it will invite the spring, summer, and fall graduates to walk across the stage during a mega drive-in commencement.
"It's such an accomplishment," said Lauren Pearson, business major. "You worked so hard. You want to like enjoy it, get the gown, cap, I think you should definitely always do it for your AA."
"The idea is that we're making sure our students have the ability to get that last bit of that 'I did it' moment in their program as they graduate," said Dr. Timothy Moore, IRSC President.
So far, over 500 students have signed up to attend with their families from the comfort of their cars.
"They'll come up across the stage in regalia, have their name read, and be able to do the handshake or fist bump," said Dr. Moore.
Families who don't feel comfortable or who are unable to attend the drive-in ceremony will have the option to take part in a virtual one.
"We're asking our students to take selfies of themselves in their regalia at home and then we're going to upload that," said Dr. Moore.
Pearson said in a time when large gatherings are not always feasible, having a virtual option that anyone can watch from home is the perfect solution.
"I know sometimes it's stressful to get family to like travel to where you are," said Peason. "It just feels like a very more mainstream, very simplified way to execute it."
The drive-in commencement will take place Dec. 16.
The virtual one will follow Dec. 17.