ALBANY, GA (WALB) -
It's the moment which symbolizes years of hard work and dedication. And Tuesday night, nearly 400 Darton College students officially became graduates.
And for those currently enrolled in school, the graduation ceremony provided an extra boost to get their diploma.
"I mean, it's really aspiring to see my friend graduate, knowing that's going to be me. And it just motivates me to do my work and work harder so I can be at this point soon," said Briana Hutley, a freshman at Darton College.
Leaving college can also be an uneasy feeling as the job search begins.
Despite what appears to be an improving economy, many students aren't entering the workforce yet and are furthering their education instead.
"No, I'm not looking, because I want to continue to do my degree. And I have another year and a half to go," said Cynthia Engridge, who's now earned her first degree in athletic training.
"I'm also dual major. This is my first. Mine is also athletic training and I actually have a position with Turner County High school," said Amber Memlich, who graduated Tuesday night.
The Labor Department reports that across the US, employers added 146,000 jobs in November and the unemployment rate dipped to 7.7%- a downward trend current students hope continues.
"I'm in the nursing program, so hopefully when I graduate I will be able to go out into the work force and it won't be a hard time getting a job," said Hutley.
But whatever the plan may be after walking across the stage to receive their diploma, Tuesday night was all about celebrating their accomplishments.
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