Alice Dehghanzadeh
Opinions Editor
Graduation is a major milestone for UC Santa Barbara (UCSB) students. For many Pilipinx-American students, it’s also an exciting opportunity to celebrate their cultural identity. Pilipino Graduation (PGrad) is a student-led organization dedicated to providing a space for Pilipinx students to foster connections, support one another, and take pride in their achievements. They do this primarily through their Pilipino Graduation Ceremony, which honors the accomplishments of Pilipinx-American students through cultural community. The Bottom Line (TBL) had the opportunity to speak with PGrad’s Co-Executive Chair, Den Earl Dulos, delving into the ins and outs of this organization.
Dulos shared that the purpose of the organization is to “provide a space” for graduating student members of the Pilipinx-American community at UCSB. This community includes, but is not limited to, “the graduating members of Kapatirang Pilipino, Pilipino Cultural Night, Filipinxs in Education Reaffirming Community Empowerment, Filipinx Association for Health Careers, and Filipino American Student Transfers.” PGrad also aims to “help foster new friendships and build upon familiar relationships across the Pilipinx-American community at UCSB.”
When asked about a memorable experience within PGrad, Dulos told TBL that the traditional Senior Sunset stood out to him. “It has always captured the spirit of the organization because it’s a time for the graduating class to bond, reflect, and be in community with their peers. It’s always a sentimental and beautiful event held on Isla Vista Beach.” Dulos emphasized that this event not only marks the end of their academic journey but also serves as a reminder of the lasting connections they’ve made through PGrad.
The PGrad graduation ceremony is a deeply personal celebration of academic achievement and cultural pride. The ceremony includes keynote and alumni speakers and a senior speech. Dulos highlighted that “every graduate is acknowledged and celebrated,” each being allotted a few minutes to talk about what they’re grateful for. Traditionally, both American and Philippine national anthems are presented. After the ceremony, “families and friends are invited to continue the celebration of each graduate, accompanied by surprise performances, comfort-catered food, music, and more.” Finally, each graduating student is awarded a Pilipinx-inspired stole to symbolize their cultural heritage and academic success, reinforcing the ceremony’s overall theme of honoring Pilipinx identity and achievement.
When reflecting on his time as Co-Executive Chair, Dulos shared that the most rewarding aspect of leading PGrad is “genuinely witnessing the bonds and final college memories that the seniors create through [their] events and meetings.” He emphasized his personal growth as a student leader by cherishing his last few months here at UCSB, as this campus “is such a beautiful school to be in, and, sometimes, we take for granted the wonderful opportunities we have living here.” By participating in PGrad activities, he hopes that members can “create long-lasting friendships and truly connect with one another so that [they] can continue to support each other post-graduation.”
The membership package of PGrad includes the following: “priority in the PGrad ceremony, free admission to social events including Winter Formal, Senior Sunset and Sunrise, Landshark, Charcuterie Night, Game Night, and more events, as well as a Filipino-inspired stole.” To get involved, Dulos stresses the importance of welcoming all students, “as [they] do offer socials open for everyone to attend, enjoy, and be in community.” The best way to stay up to date and connected with the organization is by following their Instagram, @ucsbpgrad.
To conclude, PGrad at UCSB provides a supportive space for graduating Pilipinx-American students to celebrate their heritage and create lasting, meaningful friendships and memories that go beyond graduating from UCSB.