Class of 2024 reflects on college years marked by COVID-19, protests and life’s lost milestones

By JULIE WATSON and LESLIE AMBRIZ
Associated Press

LOS ANGELES (AP) — For many in the graduating class of 2024, the unrest at campuses across the country over the Israel-Hamas war has marked an emotional end to their college experiences that started amid a pandemic. Students across the country say the reactions by colleges to the demonstrations have been particularly painful, including the cancellation of the main commencement ceremony at the University of Southern California on May 10. Many of the graduates also saw their high school proms and graduation ceremonies cancelled to curb the spread of COVID-19. Some say they believe the turmoil has made them care deeply for others.