When you’re an incoming freshman, Commencement seems a million miles away. It wasn’t on my radar. I believed my road would contain too many twists and turns for me to even think of a time when I would have to say goodbye to my friends. But like a hunter stalking its prey, time eventually catches up to you with reminders of how little time you get to spend in the midst of the wonderful life that Eastman offers.
Not long ago, in seventh grade, I can remember deciding I wanted to play trumpet for the rest of my life; sooner still I am reminded of my high school Commencement and hearing many times, “congratulations”, and “good luck on your next journey.” Just yesterday I arrived at Eastman, and on May 17 I closed the chapter on the book that was my life there.
During the Commencement ceremony, Paul Burgett, a long-lasting example of what gifts an Eastman education can bestow, reminded us to go out, battle-hardened from the fiery furnace of Eastman, to make a difference in the world. He cited numerous examples of this from alumni – Ron Carter, Bob Ludwig, Jeff Beal, Colleen Conway – and a graduating senior, our very own Alicia Ault. Dean Rossi reminded us that the path through music or anything else is hardly ever straight, and Tanya (Eastman SA President Tanatchaya Chanphanitpornkit) reminded us if we stay true to ourselves, passionate and fervent about what we believe in, we can accomplish an incredible amount.
Commencement day was bittersweet. Waking up that morning and seeing my friends fully robed after our short journey in Rochester was partly a reminder of all the great memories we made together, and also a reminder that there was still so much I wish I could have known about them.
As we closed this chapter in the series of novels which is our life, I was reminded of all the lessons I was taught, not by the professors but by my fellow seniors. First, we have an amazing capacity to help others through our music—I’ve seen it time and time again from the talented members of the Class of 2015. Second, with strong dedication to your craft, in four years of study you can become world class. Third, never underestimate how important a brief chapter in your life can be. Four years goes by in a flash; stop to smell the roses while you’re there, and that time will always be a companion in the next chapters of your life.
I’ll never forget Commencement, the selfies, the speeches, the hugs, and the goodbyes. Thank you, Eastman, and the Class of 2015.
Andrew Psarris BM ‘15
“l-r: Brendan Lanighan, Emiliano Lasansky, Evan Burrus and Andrew Psarris. // University of Rochester Eastman School of Music Commencement Ceremony, Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre May 17, 2015. // photo by J. Adam Fenster /”