EducationMay 15, 2026

Graduation in Turbulent Times: NYU and the Class of 2026

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② Start Lesson

Key Vocabulary

protest/ˈproʊ.tɛst/

a public action to show disagreement

"Students joined a protest on campus."

encampment/ɛnˈkæmpmənt/

a group of tents or a temporary camp for protesters

"An encampment was set up on the campus lawn."

commencement/kəˈmɛnsmənt/

a graduation ceremony where degrees are given

"She attended the commencement with her family."

Listening

Graduation in Turbulent Times: NYU and the Class of 2026

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.

102 words

Quiz

1. Where did the graduates study?

2. When did NYU hold its All‑University Commencement?

3. What was raised above a building during the event?

Reading Practice

Read the article from the Listening section aloud. Your AI teacher will give you pronunciation feedback.

Discussion

Do you feel nervous when you hear about protests near schools? Why or why not?

Have you ever attended a graduation during a difficult time? What happened?

What do you think helps students finish their studies when life is hard?