{"aiVersion":"1","content":{"id":"cmp67rap70004shiczwttpzj2","slug":"graduation-in-turbulent-times-nyu-and-the-class-of-20260515","title":"Graduation in Turbulent Times: NYU and the Class of 2026","level":"EASY","publishedAt":"2026-05-15T01:03:16.191Z"},"topic":{"slug":"graduation-in-turbulent-times-nyu-and-the-class-of-20260515","category":"education"},"article":{"paragraphs":["Many students at New York University graduated in May 2026. They studied during years with large campus protests and arrests. The university had encampments and demonstrations in 2024 and 2025, and police sometimes removed them. Some students came from other countries and felt worried about safety.","On May 14, 2026, NYU held its All‑University Commencement. During the event a flag with a Star of David and swastikas was raised above a building, and the incident is under investigation. Graduates said the years felt turbulent, but they still finished their degrees and celebrated with family. Many looked forward to work and further study."],"wordCount":102,"readTime":2},"vocabulary":[{"word":"protest","example":"Students joined a protest on campus.","phonetic":"/ˈproʊ.tɛst/","definition":"a public action to show disagreement"},{"word":"encampment","example":"An encampment was set up on the campus lawn.","phonetic":"/ɛnˈkæmpmənt/","definition":"a group of tents or a temporary camp for protesters"},{"word":"commencement","example":"She attended the commencement with her family.","phonetic":"/kəˈmɛnsmənt/","definition":"a graduation ceremony where degrees are given"}],"quiz":[{"answer":"New York University","question":"Where did the graduates study?"},{"answer":"May 14, 2026","question":"When did NYU hold its All‑University Commencement?"},{"answer":"a flag with a Star of David and swastikas","question":"What was raised above a building during the event?"}],"discussion":[{"question":"Do you feel nervous when you hear about protests near schools? Why or why not?"},{"question":"Have you ever attended a graduation during a difficult time? What happened?"},{"question":"What do you think helps students finish their studies when life is hard?"}]}