Graduation week a special moment for family
The Shapleski family reached a proud milestone this week, as two parents and their son crossed the stage for their university graduation ceremonies.
After years of supporting each other through assignments and navigating their respective tertiary education journeys, the payoff finally came as they got to cross the finish line together.
Mike and Shirley Shapleski, as well as son Logan, graduated during Massey University’s graduation week in Palmerston North this week. Daughter Jenna, a current Massey student, was in the audience cheering them on. “We didn’t plan to all be graduating at the same time, but it’s awesome it worked out that way,” Shirley said. “I keep teasing Logan, as technically, he and I get to cross the stage together again.”
Shirley’s journey with Massey began with a bachelor of arts, leading to her graduation in 2001 when she was pregnant with Logan.
Now, 23 years on, she has completed her postgraduate studies and this week received her master of nursing. She said there were some challenges in having her family studying simultaneously.
“It was interesting when we all had assignments due around the same time. We had to get the balance right between giving one another space to think, while also remaining dedicated to our jobs and keeping the household running.”
Mike said while it was sometimes tricky to navigate, there were benefits to all being on similar journeys.
Mike left school after year 11 without a clear understanding about university, but was determined to pursue a career path.
During his first year, taking 100-level business papers, his eyes were opened to the possibilities and he decided to do a conjoint bachelor of business studies and bachelor of science.
Years later after a career in primary health information systems, he decided to go back to study and did a master of information sciences degree
Logan, who graduated with a graduate diploma of learning and teaching, started his journey in 2020 with a bachelor of arts in history and English. “Managing placements can be pretty challenging and it felt weird to leave the house first and come home last most days.
“But being accepted into teachers’ college was a major highlight for me. I still remember sitting down in early January last year expecting there to be some mistake.”
Mike said this week was one of his proudest. “It’s a very proud moment to see my wife and son graduate. I have seen the effort and the commitment, and it will be great celebrating the achievement together.”