Graduation was celebrated with pride and unity

The ceremonial celebration began with the entry of the massed standards, carried by students from the university’s student unions and faculty associations, who entered the Aula Magna accompanied by music from the Aurum Brass Quintet.

Bearers of knowledge

Vice President, Professor Jane Reichel opened the ceremony.

“Today, we celebrate the completion of your studies, which means that you will be leaving Stockholm University. That chapter in your personal lives is closed, while other, new chapters open. Whatever the future may hold for you, I hope you will remember Stockholm University as your academic home.”

She also highlighted that the graduates carry with them the university’s most valuable asset, knowledge.

“Teaching on a scientific basis is one of the university's most important tasks. By completing your education with us, graduating and going out into the world, into the labour market and into various roles and assignments, you are ensuring that the knowledge and skills you have acquired here come to use. You, our alumni with degrees from Stockholm University, are the foremost bearers of the university's knowledge.”

Faith, conviction and trust

Kai Wiklund, Vice President of the Stockholm University Student Union, reminded the graduates that completing a degree can be the start of a new path in life and that the opportunities are endless.

“You can do anything you want to do, be anyone you want to be, and most importantly, think any thought you want to think. I hope your time here at the University has brought you faith in the future, conviction of the truth and trust in community.”

The ceremony signifies an ending

Måns Kullgren is one of this year’s graduates taking part in the ceremony. For him, it feels special to be back at the university.

“I spent five years here and learned an incredible amount. I now use that knowledge every day in my job.”

Måns studied for a master’s degree in banking and finance and started working just one week after graduating. Even so, he sometimes misses student life.

“After a while in working life, you start to miss it, the freedom, the sense of community, and being able to plan your own days. That’s why it’s especially nice to be back here celebrating together again.”

During his studies, meeting other people mattered a great deal, both fellow students and his involvement in the student association, Föreningen Ekonomerna.

“The ceremony feels like the end of youth and the start of adult life,” he says with a smile. “So, it’s lovely to be here celebrating without having to think about exams.”

Fond memories of student life

Negin Soltin completed a master’s degree in Design for Creative and Immersive Technology.

“It feels fantastic to be here and celebrate. I’m looking forward to going on stage and receiving my diploma.”

Alongside finishing her degree, she has also recently started a doctoral position. When she looks back on her time as a student, it is the sense of community she remembers most clearly.

“We worked closely together on projects and had our own lab. Sometimes we stayed late, ordered food and kept working. Those are memories I will really carry with me.”

Friends for life

Javier Ganga and Markus Rofaeil both studied law.

“It’s a relief to be finished. It’s been intense years,” says Javier.

“We’ve spent a lot of time here, often in the library. Tonight feels like the end of an important chapter,” Markus adds. “That’s why it’s so nice to share a formal ceremony like this with family and friends.”

Both emphasise the importance of the community.

“We studied together. Even when things were tough, we could support each other,” says Markus.

“Yes, we helped each other go further. It has meant a lot. You really make friendships for life here,” Javier says.

The dream came true

Piumi Suraweera and Lakshika Abesingha both completed a master’s degree in Computer and Systems Sciences.

“It’s an amazing day. I’m so grateful,” says Piumi. “It was my dream to study in Europe, and Sweden felt right from the start.”

Lakshika agrees.

“Earning a master’s degree here is a great achievement for me. I feel both proud and happy.”

Good luck on your journey

Karin Bohlin Folcker, Alumni coordinator, gave the closing speech at the ceremony, wishing the new graduates every success in their future careers.

“Thank you for the time, energy, and spirit you have brought to the university. Now, follow your curiosity. Continue to explore, to ask questions, and to choose new and exciting paths. Congratulations alumni and good luck on your journey!”

The ceremony was led by the Conferment Marshal Maja Balkandjiev and included musical performances by the Stockholm University Choir and the Austre Brass Quintet.