As another generation of business school students conclude their studies we ask them to reflect on Graduation Day and the lifelong impact of their studies… 

• Name: Elin Neppenström
• Career plans after graduation: Spa receptionist/attendant 6-month internship with a possibility for a full-time job.
• Institution: HIM Business school
• Degree: Bachelor’s in Business Administration with a Management major
• Graduation: June 2026

How does participating in a graduation ceremony help you emotionally mark the end of your student journey and prepare for what’s next? 

Graduation brought feelings of excitement and nervousness at the same time. I was so happy that I spaced out at certain moments during the ceremony because I was thinking of how my life would be after graduation.  

I was not sad that it was an end because I see every end as the start of something new. That is something I’ve kept with me ever since I can remember because it really is true.

What do you remember most about the ceremony?

I remember preparing the day before. I laid out my outfit; the dress and shoes, the graduation gown and hat. On the morning of graduation, I was so stressed and happy at the same time that I forgot one important part of the gown in my room when I was already at the ceremony. Thankfully the operations staff had extra with them, and it was sorted out, but inside my head I was panicking.

What does it mean to you to be recognised publicly for your learning and accomplishment – and who do you feel you’re representing as you cross the stage? 

It is a moment of gratitude, opportunity and a moment to look back at how far you have come. You are being recognised for your learning.  

“The moment you step on that stage you should own your moment and take it in.”

-Elin Neppenström

The accomplishments during these three years are reflected in the personal and professional growth I carry with me every day. The moment you step on that stage, you should own your moment and take it in. I represented myself when I crossed the stage because I worked hard to get where I am, and I should be really grateful for that.

In a world where learning never really ends, what does ‘graduating’ mean to you – and what kind of impact do you want to make with what you’ve learned? 

Graduating means that your studies have come to an end, but the learning doesn’t stop there. What you have learned, you take with you in your next step of life. You put it into reality and keep developing.  

I want to take what I have learned and use it to make a positive and meaningful impact, especially because we are the next generation of leaders and managers. I want to take my experience and perspective and use it to become the best leader and manager I can be. 

What is the single most memorable aspect of your studies that you will remember long after graduation? 

The most memorable lesson for me is to accept the good and the bad and not to take anything for granted. Every person I have met has made an impact in my life. You grow enormously by pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone. I did that by moving to a new country not knowing who I would meet or how things would turn out – but I can say proudly that every moment was worth it.

What one piece of advice would you pass back to the next class to help enhance their study experience? 

My advice to the next class is “Don’t judge the book by its cover”. Many people say that but still do it. I advise you to keep an open mind to those who you meet. I met many people who came from my country, but in the end, my friend group came from all over the world.  

Find your path in this environment and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone because you will do that soon enough. If an opportunity comes your way say yes because that door may lead you to the next step of your path. 

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