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Congratulations 2020 Graduands!

Written by Professor Alan Thompson, Dean, Faculty of Brain Sciences and Pro Vice Provost (London), UCL

17 august 2020, issue 6

Alan Thompson

In what has been an unexpected and unprecedented academic year, I wanted to share my heartfelt congratulations to this year’s graduands. Whilst disappointed that unfortunately physical graduation ceremonies are not taking place this year due to the pandemic, it is important to recognise the impact and contributions that our graduates have had on UCL and London throughout their studies and university experience.

London is a city which thrives on its vibrancy and people and at UCL our students certainly add to London’s richness in many ways. Whilst in London our students not only benefit from living in one of the world’s top capital cities, but they also enjoy the array of culture and heritage the city has to offer. From beautiful open spaces to hidden gems, life in London is certainly enriching. 

As the Class of 2020 move forward on to the next chapter of their lives, we will welcome a new cohort of students this coming academic year to UCL and to London. With over 42,000 students across 440 undergraduate programmes and 675 postgraduate programmes, we are thrilled to see each student progress on their pathway through to graduation and then as alumni. This year in particular, our powerful alumni community are so proud to welcome new graduates and have provided messages of congratulations in this wonderful video.

There are now over 300,000 alumni in over 190 countries worldwide, and 100,000 of these are based in London. Whilst as students they contributed not only to London’s diversity, culture, communities and economy, they continue to contribute to so much more after graduating. Our alumni and advocates have now dedicated an impressive 263,686 hours of their time and expertise through volunteering and over 57,000 of these hours were in London. We are so proud of our alumni community and networks for all of their continued support. 

Additionally through our alumni programmes we are here to support UCL graduates, whether it’s through building connections and relationships or even social opportunities. The award-winning Alumni Relations team provide the support and opportunities graduates require in order to maintain a lifelong relationship with UCL. Our professional development programme, global Recent Graduates Network and Alumni Online Community are just a few examples of the ways that graduates can access guidance, mentoring and advice whenever they need it.

Connecting with UCL and impacting London doesn’t just have to be from and within London and we recognise all the contributions our alumni are making worldwide through international connections. We look forward to continuing relationships with all departing students from here in London, wherever they are in the world. Congratulations again Class of 2020!