UNCW Spring Commencement for Class of 2025

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The University of North Carolina Wilmington celebrated its spring commencement this weekend with over 3,000 students earning their degrees.

Graduates from across five academic colleges participated in the ceremonies, which were divided by their respective schools. The Class of 2025 represents 36 states and nine countries.

Aidan McGonagle, a graduate in information technology from Rhode Island, reflected on his time at UNCW and his plans for the future.

“It’s a long way from home, but the last four years I’ve loved it here, and I want to stay for at least a few more years. I am trying to find a job right now,” McGonagle said. “Just—everyone around here is so nice and like—it’s just a great area. The weather’s beautiful, just everything about it. I’m optimistic and ready to see what life has to come for me.”

Biology major Tiffany Bonn is taking a year off before applying to physician assistant school and plans to spend time with her family during this break.

“I had the requirements but now I need a little bit more, but it’s also really good because I’ll get a little more experience and get to spend some time in calmness with my family, with my husband and my daughter,” Bonn said. “Hard-hitting sciences are for men, but I want to say if you’re a woman and you like even a little bit, there are so many different types of sciences you can do and people here are so helpful. The people make the place.”

Caroline Wood, who double majored in business management and psychology, said she focused on enjoying the moment during commencement, rather than planning for what comes next.

“I’m excited. I haven’t put much planning into exactly what I’m going to do next because I was focused on the graduating part,” Wood said. “Just wanted to enjoy the day, enjoy the moment, and then I’ll figure out what I’m gonna do.”

Wood also reflected on her time with the Delta Zeta sorority, where she held a leadership role.

“Delta Zeta, you helped me grow up—thank you very much. We all had to take on leadership positions pretty early and I think that putting in whatever you’re willing to put in will actually give you an output,” Wood said.

The ceremonies, held at Trask Coliseum on May 9 and May 10, saw more than 2,300 bachelor’s degrees conferred.