Woman Tucks 10-Day-Old Infant In Her Graduation Gown, Internet Celebrates Her Big Day

There are several instances where individuals have acquired their graduation degrees well after their actual age of pursuing studies. Those have certainly proved the point that people are able to achieve anything and everything if they are dedicated and focused enough on their goals. A woman from Michigan has recently set a new example by attending the convocation ceremony along with her newborn baby.

Despite coming out of the labour room a few days ago, the mother, recognised as Grace Szymchack, confidently walked across the stage to collect the degree certificate along with her fellow students. But when the dignitaries present at the event got to spot the baby around her arms, all of them were at their feet, with Szymchack receiving a huge round of applause for her dedication towards education.

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According to NBC Chicago, Szymchack is a resident of Traverse City who was pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education at Ferris State University. The reports suggested that the woman was scheduled to give birth to her child after the convocation would be over. While the graduation ceremony was scheduled for December 15, the delivery date was due on the following Monday.

But in a turnaround of events, Szymchack had to undergo a C-section well ahead of her due date. This, however, did not affect any of her plans. Instead of backing off, the 24-year-old woman went on to fulfil the dream of completing her studies.

On December 15, Szymchack marked her presence at the convocation ceremony, wearing the graduation gown just like her classmates. But she did not forget her motherly responsibilities. In a picture dropped by NBC Chicago on Instagram, Szymchack could be seen holding her 10-day-old daughter Annabelle gently under her graduation gown.

Coming out of the event, Szymchack said in an interaction with NBC Chicago, “I’d worked hard for this degree, and I was determined to walk with the rest of my class…so I just brought her to graduation with me.” According to her, he took the brave call to motivate other mothers to achieve their targets. “I kind of hope it inspires another mom to go back to school and show that she can do it too,” Szymchack added.

Over the past six years, Szymchack, supported by her husband, Caleb, has seamlessly balanced work, school, and motherhood to reach her academic milestone. She currently works with preschoolers and is actively involved in a Strong Beginnings programme.