ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - May 10 was a joyous day in downtown Albany as the new alums of Albany State University walked across the stage and received their diplomas. The nearly 800 graduates are about to embark on their next journey of joining the work force.

Just four years ago, Aliyah Johnson was waiting for her name to be called at the Golden Rams’ graduation. Now, completing what she calls a “full circle moment,” Johnson addressed today’s graduates as the 2025 commencement speaker.

“Today, I will be speaking to the graduates about the feelings of doubt and uncertainty and how to navigate those emotions, especially now when they are transitioning out of their collegiate matriculation... just reminding them that they are already fully equipped to smoothly transition into their hopes and dreams,” said Aliyah Johnson.

In these uncertain times, Johnson said she is certain of one thing: ASU has prepared these graduates to handle anything life throws at them.

“One thing about Albany State University is that it definitely equips all of the young generation and all of the future leaders to take over the world and do whatever it is they want to do,” continued Johnson.

One 2025 grad, Dontavious Scott, is not entering the workforce. Instead, he’s headed to graduate school at the prestigious Columbia University to receive his master’s in narrative medicine before starting medical school. He offers some advice for his fellow graduates.

“I would say stick to your passions. Things are always going to be unsure no matter where it is that you are in time. But if you know what it is that you want to do and you know that you’re going to love it, you’re always going to find a way to make sure you get to where you need to be,” said Scott.

Many of today’s graduates said their biggest concern when entering the “real world” is navigating the job market. The Georgia unemployment rate is sitting at just under 4%, and many of the students worry they wont be able to find a job until the market starts to increase.

“The market is always looking for talent,” said Interim President, Dr. Lawrence Drake. “It doesn’t really matter the time or the age because this has always been the case. I think there are talented people in this audience today. In fact, I know there is. And they’re going to find their right place.”

Speaking at today’s graduation was Dr. Lawrence Drake’s last official act has the university’s interim president. He said he is excited to pass the torch down to ASU’s new president, Dr. Robert Scott.

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