RADFORD, VA – Saturday was a day full of pride at Radford University, where more than 1,800 students graduated.
"It's exciting to be ready to move on to the next step, and figure out what's going on with my life," said Tom Brady, graduate of Radford University.
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"I don't really know what else to say, because a lot of people have a dream to travel the world, and honestly mine was to graduate college," said Elonna Wright, graduate of Radford University.
One of the main highlights to this year's ceremony was the commencement speaker, Radford University alumnus and former Virginia Tech Football Coach, Frank Beamer.
"We should laugh, we should think, we should have our emotions moved to tears of joy," said Beamer during commencement speech.
His message proved powerful for the students.
"The overall gist, he wanted people to enjoy the little things, he wanted people to smile everyday," says Brady.
"Hold the door, say please, say thank you, don't steal, don't cheat, don't lie, I know you have mountains to clime, but always stay humble and kind," said Beamer.
"I like that he talked about like how there's going to be a mountain and to keep climbing and not like let other people get the best of you," said Alexa Ward, graduate of Radford University.
While graduation became a reality for these students, some are still in shock.
"I feel surreal, I worked hard to get here," said Wright.
The proud graduates of 2017 represent 19 countries, and 18 states.