I had the extreme misfortune of attending graduation at aggy a few weeks ago. Not an experience I hope I ever repeat.
It was notable for a couple of things. First, predictably, was the number of nimrods who, upon walking the stage and having their (symbolic) diploma handed, looked into the camera onstage and did the Horns down. I mean, really? Talk about living rent free.
Second, and more remarkably, were the speakers. I've been to graduations at many different universities over the years and the speeches tend to be related to a number of common and relevant topics: do good, lifelong learning, follow your passion, pay it forward, etc., etc. At this graduation we heard from the Chairman of the BOR, the university chancellor, the university president, college dean, faculty representative, student representative and president of the alumni association. In all their messages there was one common theme that, collectively, took up about 90% (generously lowballing there, if anything) of their time: How cool it is to be an aggie.
Not joking or exaggerating, even a little.
It was shocking just how inside-focused the whole thing was. Very, very little mention of anything relating to impact on the outside world.
Yes, one speaker did invoke the "From the outside you can't understand it..." trope.
They are a cult. Pure and simple and wholly undeniable.
And, of course, the whole thing ended with them singing their ode to The University of Texas and locking arms to sway back and forth. I was honored and amused.