Queen’s University Belfast recently conferred 25 "gradupets" in a lighthearted graduation ceremony meant to recognize the furry friends who supported their humans during their time at the university.
The graduating class of 2024 included a number of dogs, cats, and even a dwarf hamster.
Maria Elena Calingasan Cariga and Roborovski dwarf hamster Peaches. (Queen's University Belfast)
The adorable four-legged friends were photographed on the red carpet before accepting a Queen’s University Belfast honorary "dog-torate cat-ificate" in either Pawlitical Sciences, Barkitecture, Furensic Pawthology, or Barketing.
Cavapoo Milo Carruthers. (Queen's University Belfast)
The unofficial and informal ceremony was held at the university's Lanyon Building.
According to the University, research has shown that our furry friends are excellent study buddies, as time spent with pets can improve concentration levels and lower stress.
Barkitecture, Pawlitical Sciences, Furensic Pawthology 🐾 The Class of 2024 really have done it all.
We know that pets reduce anxiety, so these four-legged friends play a huge role in helping our graduates go on to change the world for the better.
Let's give them a round of… pic.twitter.com/qLmKtVKosd
— Queen's University Belfast 🎓 (@QUBelfast) July 10, 2024
Stephen Baxter-Crawford, Queen's Social Media Manager and the organizer of the pet graduation, said: "Queen's has been changing the world since 1845 and as we enter our 180-year celebrations, we wanted to celebrate our graduates who are making a difference locally, nationally and across the globe.
"We know that pets reduce anxiety when studying. They are there every step of the way, often listening in as our students revise and maybe even picking up some knowledge too. So we wanted to recognize their commitment.
"Congratulations to the class of 2024 and everyone in their lives who has helped them achieve their dreams."
Sammy the Black Labrador. (Queen's University Belfast)
Celebrating with Rico, his 13-year-old Jack Russell, Queen’s graduate Michael Murphy said: “I’m delighted to see Rico and the support he gave me throughout my studies being recognized and celebrated by the University, and it’s exciting to be a part of history at the UK’s first pet graduation ceremony of its kind.
“Despite being a mature student in dog years, Rico is still full of beans and has been a great comfort during my studies. I am delighted to see his efforts recognized and to have another Queen’s graduate in the family!”
Rico and Michael Murphy. (Queen's University Belfast)
Another Queen’s graduate, Aaron Christie, was there at the pet graduation with his cat Raphael.
"I'm thrilled to see Raphael's ongoing support being recognised and rewarded by the University," said Christie.
"It's great to be a part of this ceremony as pets are such an integral part of the family, we would all be so lost without them.
Raphael the cat with owner Aaron Christie. (Queen's University Belfast)
"Raphael has been one of my best friends throughout my studies at Queen's; always there to give you a warm cuddle when you least expect it but just when you really need it, even if he has to walk all over my laptop!
"I'm grateful to have his contributions to my degree formally awarded and it would be great to see this tradition continued in years to come."
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