Most of us have experienced those last few chaotic weeks of the educational term, and cramming for exams or having all-nighters writing the magical last paragraph on a thesis is a strong memory for many of us. Now with summer looming in the Northern hemisphere, students are finishing their year of studies, and many will be rewarded with a degree or diploma in a formal ceremony.

Whether it be for students finishing their schooling or professionals who have expanded their foundations, these moments of celebration are an important way to acknowledge the hard work done, the achievements made, the human ability to absorb information and utilize it to create positive changes in our own lives and in the lives of others. What we learn and what we teach can truly have a positive, active and immediate effect that spreads beyond the classroom and out into our wider world.

With students stepping out to meet the world with mind prepared and skills tuned, the images we have chosen for this lightbox celebrate the positive attitude and empowering spirit that education rewards us with.

CLICK HERE to see the lightbox of graduation photos

Cheering Graduates — Image by © Kevin Dodge/Corbis