Students Express Excitement, Relief at RCSJ 4th Annual Commencement Ceremony

On Thursday, May 11, an inescapable energy of pure joy, jubilance, and a bit of relief permeated the atmosphere at Rowan College of South Jersey–Cumberland Campus’s (RCSJ) 4th annual Commencement ceremony. More than 300 students were on hand to celebrate their academic achievements with their fellow graduates, family members, and friends.

Local government officials, administrators, and educators were also in attendance to support the graduates and acknowledge their accomplishments.

RCSJ students whooped, applauded, and cheered for their fellow classmates as they walked exuberantly across the stage to receive their well-earned diplomas.

Several students shared their thoughts and emotions about the paths they traveled on to become Rowan College of South Jersey–Cumberland graduates.

Lesley Martinez, 30, Vineland, Criminal Justice: I’m very excited. I’m ready to see what else is in store for me.
Cody McMahan, 28, Rosenhayn, Horticulture: I’m very excited to move on. My favorite part about RCSJ was all the hands-on classes [and] working with plants.

Erykah Bluitt, 21, Vineland, Criminal Justice: I am so excited. It was a good experience. I can’t wait to transfer to a four-year school and get my bachelor’s and master’s.

Boguslaw Sakhan, 29, Vineland, Nursing: To explain it, it’s the same thing as an individual in the desert for 20 days without any water and you finally taste that first sip. That’s how it feels right now – liberating.

Stephanie Risley, 23, Millville, Justice Studies: I’m glad that we got through it and that it’s over. It was definitely a journey but I’m glad it’s done. I’m ready to move on to the next step. I’m going to go to another school and get my bachelor’s in criminal justice/social justice.