Oh Nothing, Just the Past Four Years Staring at Me

Sophia Estrada-PadillaBlogPublic Relations

May 6

One outfit. Four years. A whole lot of feelings.

While scrolling on TikTok—like many of us do—, I came across a video that made me nostalgic of an experience I haven't even had yet. The video was part of a larger trend on TikTok where soon-to-graduate seniors are showing off their grad outfits, along with their cap and gown, and reflecting on what this moment means to them.

Some captions include,“Oh nothing, just the past four years staring at me.” My initial thoughts were, “Wow! A whole chapter of your life in three pieces of clothing.” This is more than just a trend; it is a snapshot of time that commemorates personal growth.

**Wearing the Journey**

This trend resonates so deeply with students because one day, you will wake up and realize the past four years have gone by in the blink of an eye.
Clothing carries so much significance, like remembering what you wore to prom or to your high school graduation.
It represents more than that brief moment; it represents the eras you have gone through. This trend on TikTok does a great job of symbolically summing up our college experience in a single outfit.
Graduation represents all of those moments of personal growth like late nights, early mornings, group assignments, and presentations.
It’s more than just your ‘fit’. It represents your moments of resilience and personal growth.

Pride That Unites Us

One of the most heartwarming parts of this trend is the comment section, full of love, advice, congratulations and encouragement from many students across the world. It’s also filled with students who attended or currently attend the same school, with chants like, “Go Beach” or, “Boiler Up!” creating a sense of community and pride.

“Congratulations! Graduation day feels like such a fever dream and goes by quick, make sure to take a moment to take it all in!” says Riley, a user from TikTok. Adding on, “I don’t know you but you’re living my dream, I am applying in Sept to Berkeley Law. Manifesting this kind of accomplishment. I wish you well and so much success.” Emily, a user from TikTok shared.

Thoughts (and emotions!) From CSULB PR Grads

I also interviewed graduating students majoring in PR and students entering the PR field, to hear their thoughts and feelings toward graduation.

“I am so excited to graduate this spring.It feels like a bittersweet moment because I am going to miss the vibe, feeling, and social aspect of campus, but I am so excited to graduate and see where and what type of PR career will choose me,” says Emely Salguero.

“So excited! It’s a mix of stress and excitement knowing that I’m almost done and also have a lot of work to do. I know it’ll be worth it in the end so just trying to take in these last few classes as well as the relationships I’ve built with friends! My time at Long Beach has been an amazing experience and I’ll definitely miss it,” says Ruby Hernandez.

To all the graduating seniors, you have all worked hard for this diploma. May you walk across the stage and celebrate all your academic accomplishments and personal growth. Reminisce about your time on Friendship Walk running to class on upper campus, or your late night studies. Know that all was worth it. So as you see your cap and gown hanging in your closet, remember, you are not only wearing a gown; you are wearing every version of yourself that got you to where you are now. Congratulations, Class of 2025!