There might be no literally sweeter way to say goodbye to friends and school than a stack of pancakes with maple syrup. After lining up to take advantage of a free meal with fellow graduates in the Student Union on Wednesday, some students found the event bittersweet, while others were ecstatic about ending their stay at the university and entering an entirely new chapter in their lives.
Mike Bryant, a senior architecture major who attended the brunch, said the event helped him get into the mood for graduation.
"This is the best feeling of my life," Bryant said. "I love it here at UB, but I'm definitely ready for a change."
The Student Union was filled with smiling faces as students enjoyed their brunch, shared memories with friends and filled up on a delicious spread, courtesy of SA. A senior slide show was open for viewing in the theater throughout the brunch. The slide show was provided to give seniors a chance to relax and reflect on their hard work and good times over the past several years.
Shanika Mitchell, a communication major, said the anticipation for commencement is intense.
"I'm excited, overwhelmed and scared all at the same time," Mitchell said.
Like Mitchell, other students are also a little melancholy about leaving UB. Shannon Schwartz, an English and legal studies major, has mixed emotions about heading out into the professional world.
"We're leaving our little bubble. I'm excited and a little sad all at the same time," Schwartz said.
As seniors entered the Union, they were greeted with a 20-foot balloon archway and signs of congratulations. The brunch was served in a roped off area, complete with a DJ, great door prizes, and free souvenirs.
Faculty, staff and alumni volunteered to help serve the meal to students.
Chris Biondoillo, a history major and Spanish minor, enjoyed the brunch and is looking forward to graduation in May.
"I'm excited and a little nervous, but I'm ready for a change and I want to see what's next," Biondoillo said.
Damianos Skaros, a senior environmental engineering major, held similar sentiments about graduation.
"It has been four long years and I'm ready to get into the real world. It is sad all of my friends are going their separate ways, but we'll keep in contact," Skaros said.
Aileen Nyman, a senior psychology major is ready to test her skills and delve into the workforce after college.
"I'm so excited to be done and start making some money," Nyman said.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
