What the Class of 2026 wants you to know
What graduating means to you
Graduating college means turning years of doubt into proof that I have always belonged, not just for myself but for my family who made this journey possible. As a first-gen Latina student, it represents a full circle moment, honoring their sacrifices while becoming the person I once wasn’t sure I could be."
Mgmt, MgmtEntr'26
Student of the Year, Diverse Scholars Program Nominee
PreCollegiate Development Program Coordinator
This journey was never just about me. It is about the lives I get to impact as an educator, and the responsibility I carry to keep growing, serving and leading with compassion wherever I go."
MEdu'26
School of Education MA+ Outstanding Community Engagement Award
To me, graduating from college shows that my hard work and dedication to engineering has paid off, and that anything is possible if you work hard."
CivEngr'26
Dept. of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering Academic Engagement Award
Honesty my mom deserves this degree almost more than me. I could have never done this without her unwavering support and reassurances. I love her so much and am grateful for her."
Edu'26
School of Education Outstanding Undergraduate Contribution to Community Engagement
School of Education Student Ambassador
Graduating from CU Boulder makes me a fourth-generation educator, and the first male educator in my family. Having the opportunity to share my enthusiasm, optimism, commitment to joy in the educational space, and deep belief in the boundless capabilities of young people with the Boulder and Denver community means the world to me."
MEdu'26
School of Education Outstanding MA+ Graduate Contribution to Teaching Award
Graduating means turning uncertainty into belief, and proving to myself that I can build a life far beyond where I started."
MSupChnAna'26
Supply Chain Analytics Outstanding Student Award
A major triumph in life and a first step toward pursuing my passion in the future."
Phys'26
It means being the first person in my family with a bachelor’s degree. It means doors opened for me that I’m meant to set the pace for."
Acct'26
Every day at CU has been exciting, challenging and deeply motivating. I feel heard, welcomed and respected when bringing my ideas and values to the table, and that environment has consistently pushed me to aim higher. As an international student, I'm proud to represent my family and grateful to the amazing faculty for their encouragement and support. Being awarded a scholarship upon admission affirmed my potential, and graduating from CU is a testament to my abilities. Now, as I embark on my career as a data analyst, I'm ready to apply everything I've learned here to create meaningful impact."
MBusAna'26
MS Business Analytics Scholarship Award
This represents becoming a qualified researcher who can help improve the teaching and learning of physics for future students!"
PhDPhys'26
Professional Research Associate at the Center for STEM Learning
Graduating from college means adapting to a new environment. As a first-generation college student, I wanted to pave the way for my younger sibling. This journey has truly been amazing. I challenged myself to experience a new state, thrive in my studies and find a community here at CU Boulder."
ChemBioEngr'26
College of Engineering and Applied Science Research Award
As a first-generation student, graduating from college means more to me than earning a degree. Getting this degree not only represents my own effort, but everything behind it, including my family and the sacrifices and the support that got me here. I will always reflect on the growth I've experienced and the communities I've built at CU Boulder."
ChemEngr'26
College of Engineering and Applied Science Community Impact Award
It represents to me a turning point where I determine the professional I want to be in the following years. However, after all the efforts and lessons, no matter what path, I know I will be ready to face the challenges that will appear."
Math, Phys'26
Receiving a doctorate in physics is a wild dream for me as a young person growing up in Vietnam, with few inspirations to hold onto. This achievement is a conclusion to a decade-long journey with many hardships to overcome."
PhDPhys'26
What's next?
Following graduation from CU, I will be pursuing a PhD in physics at Princeton University. CU helped me prepare for this by providing the opportunity to get involved in research early and by supporting me in various leadership roles."
Phys'26
President of the Society of Physics Students, Founder & Director of the Colorado Undergraduate Physics Conference
I plan to work on my medical school application while gaining ICU experience and building my skills by caring for patients in a demanding environment. At the same time, I want to keep volunteering because staying connected to my community and giving back is very important to me. These goals build on the lessons I learned at CU Boulder, where I learned to address complex problems with both technical skill and empathy. Furthermore, my experience in biomedical engineering and as a teaching assistant strengthened my critical thinking, communication and teaching abilities. CU Boulder also taught me to balance technical work with compassion, a value I will carry into my medical career."
BioMedEngr'26
College of Engineering and Applied Science Academic Engagement Award
I am continuing my education at CU Boulder by pursuing my master's degree in mechanical engineering through the BAM Program. My undergraduate degree at CU Boulder helped me gain a foundation in mechanical engineering and gave me the opportunity to discover what I am passionate about."
MechEngr'26
College of Engineering and Applied Science Academic Engagement Award
After graduation, I will be interning at United Launch Alliance on the Mechanical Engineering Strength Analysis team at their factory in Decatur, Alabama, and will be a Brooke Owens Fellow. I'll return to CU in the fall to complete my master's degree through the BAM program. CU gave me the opportunity to explore different parts of the world and what engineering can and should look like in a range of fields. Those experiences helped me better learn what I value and how I can uphold my values in any work I do."
MechEngr'26
College of Engineering and Applied Science Community Impact Award, Culture Impact Award, Global Engagement Award and Silver Medal
I am looking at getting into intellectual property (IP) law. CU gave me the tools in analytical and precise thinking, as well as the connections in finding my way into this career path."
Phys'26
At CU, I worked on machine learning models to support and accelerate regional ocean modeling. After graduation I will be working on modeling oceans at NCAR."
Phys'26
After graduation, I will return to CU to complete the architectural engineering bachelor’s-accelerated master’s (BAM) program with a focus on lighting design and circadian rhythms. CU was instrumental in cultivating my interest in architectural lighting, a field I was not aware of before arriving at CU. The professors' genuine passion for their areas of expertise made learning exciting and is a major reason I am returning for another year."
ArchEngr'26
Dept. of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering Milo S. Ketchum Award Runner-up
After graduation, I will be moving to San Francisco to pursue a position as an electrical designer for buildings. CU Boulder helped me prepare for this next chapter in many different ways. But the most obvious to me is how important getting involved in your community is to your happiness and success. Surrounding myself with equally motivated people throughout my college career, including classmates in my major, fellow engineers, workout partners and friends who make me laugh, has helped me stay focused while building a community I will miss dearly."
ArchEngr'26
Dept. of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering Community Impact Award
Currently, I plan to continue at CU Boulder to earn my master's degree through the BAM program. I will also simultaneously be continuing my search for potential job prospects at medical device companies. CEAS has helped me best prepare for this path by providing me the opportunities needed to explore my interests in medical technology (e.g., having access to work in a cardiovascular tissue engineering position as an undergraduate)."
BioMedEngr'26
College of Engineering and Applied Science Research Award
I will be continuing with my Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering here at CU Boulder as part of the bachelor's-accelerated masters (BAM) program! The opportunities offered by CU Boulder allowed me to pursue and learn more about topics that are of interest to me and helped me to develop both the technical and soft skills necessary to be confident in my abilities as an engineer."
MechEngr'26
College of Engineering and Applied Science Academic Engagement Award
I’ll be spending the next six years working towards a PhD in physics at Ohio State University. CU helped me prepare for grad school by offering a wide range of physics courses, and most importantly offering numerous research opportunities with supportive research advisors."
Phys'26
Starting this fall, I am transitioning from an internship to a full-time position with Medtronic as a clinical specialist providing technical support for physicians in hospitals. I am also moving to Durham, North Carolina, where I will be a part-time graduate student at Duke University earning a master's in mechanical engineering. CU Boulder helped me make connections at Medtronic through the Biomedical Engineering Society and provided rigorous coursework that helped me get into grad school at Duke."
BioMedEngr, MechEngr'26
College of Engineering and Applied Science Community Impact Award, Global Engagement Award, and Research Award
I'm doing a master's degree in biomedical engineering as well as hoping to work in industry during that year. CU Boulder helped me prepare by giving me the tools and support I needed to thrive in these years. I sincerely appreciate the support staff and faculty in the biomedical engineering department!"
BioMedEngr'26
College of Engineering and Applied Science Community Impact Award
This summer, I will be interning at Lerch Bates, an engineering consulting company in Golden. Additionally, I am considering staying at CU Boulder for my master's starting in the fall. CEAS helped me prepare by connecting me with Kat McConnell and the MCEN Professions class, which have helped me with my resume and networking. I also got my research position through her email list with job opportunities."
MechEngr'26
College of Engineering and Applied Science Research Award
I plan to pursue a career in engineering consulting, focusing on building enclosures. CU Boulder helped prepare me by giving me the key to life’s opportunities. As a first‑generation college student with a family background in the construction trades, I carry forward a strong sense of integrity and a commitment to building with intention. I plan to continue growing as a lifelong learner and to share that knowledge with others. We stand on the shoulders of giants, and I want to help engineer our communities and homes to meet the needs of current and future generations."
ArchEngr'26
College of Engineering and Applied Science Perseverance Award
After graduation I'll be working full-time as a project engineer at Prime Path Medtech. CU Boulder and the College of Engineering and Applied Science provided a community and course load that helped me grow as a person and develop invaluable engineering tools that I aim to utilize as I move into the medical device industry."
BioMedEngr'26
College of Engineering and Applied Science Research Award
This summer I will start as a field engineer with Mortenson Construction's wind team. CU gave me the opportunity to explore a wide variety of engineering fields and industries, so that I could find what most interested me."
MechEngr'26
College of Engineering and Applied Science Global Engagement Award
Next, I’ll be working at Vescent Technologies as a systems engineer intern. CU helped prepare me by giving me both a strong technical foundation and the confidence to apply physics to real-world systems and emerging technologies."
Math, Phys'26
Your best piece of advice
Take advantage of every opportunity to build and apply what you’re learning early on. Classes give you the foundation, but projects, internships and hands-on work are where everything really clicks. The biggest growth comes from getting involved, asking questions and pushing beyond your comfort zone. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes or take risks, that’s where real learning happens. Some of your best experiences will come from trying things you’re not fully prepared for yet. Also, make an effort to meet people who are driven and want to make an impact. Surrounding yourself with like-minded people who care about building, creating and changing the world will push you to grow in ways you can’t do alone."
BioMedEngr'26
College of Engineering and Applied Science Research Award
Find things you are passionate about, and don’t be afraid to push yourself. Take full advantage of the incredible opportunity you have at CU. Fill your schedule with a compendium of responsibilities you are genuinely excited about. Wake up Monday morning with that delightful anxiety and excitement as you see how busy the week ahead is. Few have ever looked back on college and said, 'I wish I had done less.'"
MechEngr'26
College of Engineering and Applied Science Research Award
Get involved in the college community, whether through clubs, Greek life, group workouts or campus events. Some of the most rewarding parts of college come from the connections you make and the experiences you choose. Finding your community will help you grow, meet incredible people and make the most of your time in college."
CivEngr'26
College of Engineering and Applied Science Community Impact Award
It’s not about being smart, it’s about grit and the appreciation of the beauty of physics."
Math, Phys'26
Quantum Scholars Executive Board
My experience at CU taught me that pursuing what you are passionate about is crucial to success. That passion allows you to not only continue to grow in your own journey but to spread that passion and motivation to others."
ArchEngr'26
Research Award from the Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering
Stay curious and push yourself outside your comfort zone when it comes to your passions!"
ApMath, EngrPhys'26
College of Engineering and Applied Science Research Award
Put in the long hours and extra effort to fully engage in your education. Also, make an effort to be part of a campus community, whether through student organizations, intramural sports or other activities."
ArchEngr'26
Department of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering Perseverance Award
Say yes before you feel ready. The opportunities at Leeds, CU Boulder will stretch you—but that’s exactly where the growth happens. Every role, conversation, and challenge adds up in ways you won’t fully see until the end."
MSMBA'26
Teaching Assistant, Research Assistant, Student Project Coordinator
Say yes to as many opportunities as possible, whether it’s spending time with friends, getting involved in research or joining a new club. These experiences help you discover your passions and shape your college journey. By saying yes, I’ve been able to grow both as an engineer and as a person."
CivEngr'26
Dept. of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering Community Impact Award
Ask questions and stay curious! My professors in undergrad used to say that as teachers, we need to support our students in being "little scientists," but we also need to remember to embrace that mindset in our own lives. Whether you're talking to a professor, a peer or someone you just met, asking genuine questions can open doors you never knew existed. Some of my most unexpected opportunities came simply from being curious and willing to start a conversation."
MAEdu'26
School of Education Outstanding Capstone/Practitioner Inquiry Project Award
Find balance between school, work and personal life. It’s easy to get caught up in the pursuit of academic success and lose sight of what truly brings you joy. No grade is worth jeopardizing your future, your relationships or your passions—especially your sense of self."
ArchEngr'26
Department of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering Cultural Impact Award
Every meaningful achievement takes time, patience and grit. When the journey feels heavy, focus on one simple promise: ‘Just make it to the next day.’ The momentum will grow, the hard moments will pass, and eventually you’ll stand at the finish line thinking, ‘I did it.'"
CivEngr'26
Dept. of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering Perseverance Award
Stay present to the work and to the world you carry within you. Do not separate your experiences, as they are the foundation of your insight, your creativity and your impact. Allow yourself to feel deeply, to question boldly and to sit with what is unresolved. Seek community intentionally and lean into relationships that lovingly challenge, support and sustain you."
PhDEdu'26
Find what inspires you and dig as deep as you can to make lasting and impactful change. We all have our gifts, and when we leverage those to work toward the good, there is no limit to the difference we can make."
ArchEngr'26
Department of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering Community Impact Award
Be sure to meaningfully engage with your advisor and other mentors on campus. There is extensive support available, and you’ll find a wealth of knowledge to be shared among peers and professors!"
MAEdu'26
School of Education Outstanding Capstone Award
The more you apply yourself to school, to relationships and to extracurriculars, the more valuable your college experience will be."
CivEngr'26
Milo S. Ketchum Award
Be open to new opportunities! Try new things, talk to new people, join that random club, go to that event, even if it’s a little scary. Some of the best experiences, the ones that stick with you and teach you who you really are, come from the moments you didn’t expect at all. Never underestimate the power of simply being willing to try!"
Edu'26
School of Education Outstanding Undergraduate Contribution to Teaching
Be just as invested in the people around you as you are in yourself. Care just as much about their work and their happiness as you care about yours. This is a really tough journey, and it’s tough for everyone. Everyone is trying to figure it out, navigate life, do something meaningful—and it’s a lot easier (and so much more enjoyable) when you engage in that process together. My cohort and other doctoral students along the way made me feel like I could do this. They helped make me feel like my work mattered and the things I care about are worthy of exploration. They even embraced all of my weird bug references and metaphors! In return, I am their biggest cheerleader and so proud to know them and see how their work unfolds. The people around you are your best resource!"
PhDEdu'26
School of Education Outstanding Teaching Award
Say yes, especially at the beginning, because that could set you up to be saying a lot of yeses to opportunities later, too. I'm very thankful for all of the experiences I’ve had here and for all of my professors, getting me to where I am today. Being named Outstanding Senior is a wonderful end to my time at CU Boulder—it’s nice to know that what I did is appreciated and that I made an impact."
Mus'26
College of Music Outstanding Graduating Senior
For future students, my advice is simple: Fail often, and fail early. Failure is not a reflection of your potential, it is a necessary part of growth. Allowing yourself to struggle, to take risks and to step outside of your comfort zone will accelerate your learning and help you discover what you are truly passionate about. Do not be afraid to ask questions, to seek help or to challenge yourself with difficult material. Academic success is not reserved for those with prior knowledge or natural talent; it belongs to those who are willing to persist, to reflect and to continue moving forward despite setbacks."
MechEngr'26
College of Engineering and Applied Science Academic Engagement Award
Find your community! The impact that being around people who genuinely want to see you succeed and want to support you is amazing!"
Edu'26
School of Education Outstanding Undergraduate Contributions to Leadership in Education and Outstanding Overall Undergraduate
Discover the 2026 outstanding graduates
In tandem with the 2026 Commencement Ceremony, the university community is celebrating the outstanding graduates from across campus.
Read more commencement stories
- 50 Years Later, Pete Brock Finishes What He Started at Colorado
- 2026 Outstanding Chemical and Biological Engineering Alumni Mentor of the Year: Ben Rains
- A non-traditional student found his purpose in the cosmos. Now he helps his community do the same.
- Colorado Law student graduates with 573 public service hours
- ‘Good evening, I’m an A.I., and this is your nightly news’ (CMDI)
- Pedaling Toward the Future: Celebrating Our Spring 2026 Buffalo Bicycle Classic Graduates
Editor’s note: Quotes may include minimal edits for length and clarity. See a list of degree abbreviations.