Columbia Graduation 2025

One of the most celebratory rites of spring is graduation season. Here at Columbia that means School Ceremonies, Student Celebrations, and University Commencement.

We invite you to join the fun and commemorate the graduates in the Class of 2025 by sharing your memories and photos.

Here you'll find graduate stories and pictures, trivia and tips, and the latest updates on what to expect from this year's various celebrations. We'll be updating this page in the lead up to the big day, Commencement 2025 on May 21.

If you're looking for logistical information, the schedule of ceremonies, and more, please click the button below to visit the full Commencement website.

Congratulations #Columbia2025 graduates!

Empire State Building. The Empire State Building image® is a registered trademark of ESRT Empire State Building, L.L.C. and is used with permission.

Look Up on Commencement Night

On May 21, from sunset to 2:00 AM, the Empire State Building will shine blue to honor our graduates. Take in the skyline to celebrate the Class of 2025 with all of New York City.

Don't miss our tips on where to take the best pictures.

Graduate Stories

Throughout graduation season, we'll be updating this space with the personal stories of the Class of 2025 from across the University.

Samia Breir
Samia Breir SPS'25

For Samia Breir, coming to Columbia was about “being in the right place at the right time with the right people.”

Aman Choudhri
Aman Choudhri CC'25

The Core Curriculum led Aman Choudhri to his new life as a “policy wonk." Columbia Bhangra made him a dancer.

Sara Gomez Horta
Sara Gomez Horta SIPA'25

Sara Gomez Horta helps young Latinas plan for their financial futures.

Marilyne Njuraita
Marilyne Njuraita SSW'25

Marilyne Njuraita chose Columbia because it has one of the oldest schools of social work in the U.S.

Cody O'Ferrall
Cody O'Ferrall SEAS'25

Cody O’Ferrall worked as a fisherman in Alaska. Now he's building a boat to clear urban ponds of algae.

Olivia Palma and a Shipibo elder
Olivia Palma CCS'25

Olivia Palma is a bridge between communities in Latin America, policymakers, and funders who are collaborating on preservation and economic opportunities.

Amalia Oliva Rojas
Amalia Oliva Rojas SOA'25

Through her work as a playwright, Amalia Oliva Rojas gives voice to immigrants and women of color.

Johnny Sturgeon
Johnny Sturgeon JRN'25

Johnny Sturgeon went from building a houseboat to maritime reporting.

Pablo Torres Rey
Pablo Torres Rey CC'25

Pablo Torres Rey is majoring in Economics-Mathematics with a concentration in German Literature and Cultural History. 

Anika Tsapatsaris
Anika Tsapatsaris GSAPP'25

Anika Tsapatsaris has spent eight years at Columbia, relishing every moment.

Lina Maria Villegas
Lina Maria Villegas CCS'25

Lina Maria Villegas, a Columbia student and NASA research assistant, seeks a common language between science and policy.

Yaniv Yatziv
Yaniv Yatziv CBS'25

Yaniv Yatziv is interested in the intersection of sports, business, and technology.

Find Your Way

Here's a handy map of our Morningside campus to help orient yourself for Commencement Day on May 21. To plan your graduation week travel and find directions, additional maps, and parking suggestions, visit the Commencement website.