It has been a challenging time for many of us, including the thousands forced to move their studies online.
And today, as scores of law and social science students made their way onto the stage at P&J Live to graduate from Aberdeen University, they were told to reflect on just what they have overcome – and to celebrate in style.
Professor Greg Gordon, head of the law school, told the crowd: “Here in the north-east of Scotland, we are sometimes a bit sceptical about making too much of a fuss, or people who seem a bit too pleased with themselves.
“But let me assure you that all such native reticence is today – suspended. For one day and one day only, you can be as bigsy as you wint.”
To see who is celebrating this week, use our interactive tool to check the full list of graduations.
Each day we’ll be shining the spotlight on four of the day’s graduates from the north and north-east.
Aberdeen
Budding Aberdeen lawyer Justin Reid had double reason to celebrate his graduation today.
Not only did he pick up his degree, but he also received a medal named after an admired Aberdeen jurist – with links to his former school – for his time in the mooting society.
The 21-year-old praised the “first rate education” offered by Aberdeen University.
He is already looking forward to his traineeship with Stronachs, and wants to do advocacy work to help others.
Aberdeenshire
Graduating was something that Erin Rapson often wondered if she would get to do.
The 23-year-old, from Westhill, had to overcome several personal challenges to get her moment on the P&J Live stage – and has plenty of reasons to celebrate today.
Now with a politics and international relations degree from Aberdeen University under her belt, as well as some experience as a Childline volunteer, she is planning to become a secondary school teacher.
Moray
Calum Clark was cheered on by his parents and sister as he collected his degree in politics and international relations today.
But it was a bittersweet moment, as the 21-year-old’s grandfather died just last week.
Mr Clark, from Forres, dedicated his achievements to his grandad and said they will be remembering him as they celebrate.
He said he thoroughly enjoyed his course at university, but admitted Covid was a “test of his passion” for politics.
Highlands and Islands
Brooke Mitchell swapped Orkney for Aberdeen for her studies, but has one more big move coming up soon.
The 22-year-old, who is celebrating her degree in politics and international relations, is preparing to move to London to start a job with Warner Brothers.
She praised the opportunities given to young people in Orkney for her sparking her passion for politics.
Don’t miss: Graduations Gallery
GALLERY: Hats off in Aberdeen as university graduations continue
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