To All Graduates and Program Completion Students

Congratulations to all of you who have graduated or completed your studies and received your degrees. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to every graduate and program finisher.

I'm sure you've all had many different experiences during your university life. I imagine you have plenty of good memories too—things that were fun or that you were passionate about. On the other hand, you likely faced many challenges in your university studies, struggling to make progress as you had hoped, and also encountered difficulties in daily life, including interpersonal relationships. Nevertheless, it is truly remarkable that you all achieved your learning goals through extraordinary effort and strong conviction. All faculty and staff of Yamagata University sincerely commend your efforts thus far and extend our heartfelt congratulations on your new beginning.

The degree certificates awarded by the university serve as proof that you have acquired a certain level of knowledge, ability, and research achievements in your respective fields of study. The efforts you have sustained thus far will never be in vain. Everything you have experienced during your university life will serve as invaluable nourishment for your future journey, granting you the strength and confidence to overcome any hardship that may stand in your way. Throughout the long journey of life, there may be times when things don't go as planned and you struggle to achieve results. When that happens, don't carry the burden alone—please reach out to those around you for help. You are not alone in society; there are always others who care about you. The professors you get acquainted at university will remain your allies, ready to offer guidance whenever you need it.

You will each embark on your own paths in life. Some will enter the workforce, while others will pursue further education to master their chosen fields. The path you walk from here on is largely one you have chosen for yourselves, but the fact that we are able to confer these degrees upon you today is thanks to the support of many people, including your friends and family. I think this is something I could never have achieved on my own. Please continue to hold gratitude in your heart for those who supported your university life, as a way of repaying the kindness shown to you.

I would like to offer my heartfelt congratulations on your embarking on a new stage in your lives, and this concludes my message. Congratulations today.

President Tamate Hidetoshi, September 24 2025

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