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Best places to take commencement photos on Northeastern’s Boston campus

As graduates don their caps and gowns, the campus transforms into a vibrant backdrop for photos with family and friends.

Several people taking photographs of a Northeastern graduate.
Graduates pose for photos on Northeastern’s Boston campus on Wednesday, April 30. Photo by Alyssa Stone/Northeastern University

Commencement Week at Northeastern University is a time of celebration, reflection, and, of course, capturing memories that will last a lifetime.

As graduates don their caps and gowns, the Boston campus transforms into a vibrant backdrop for photos with family and friends. 

From murals and statues to expansive green spaces, Northeastern offers a variety of picturesque spots perfect for commemorating this milestone.

Here are some of the best places on campus to take photos:

Block letters, numbers

The block letters and numbers around campus — especially on Centennial Common — are great places to strike a pose in your cap and gown.

A group of graduates sitting on a stone bridge over a koi pond.
Photo by Alyssa Stone/Northeastern University

Koi pond

One of Northeastern’s most popular spots during any season, the koi pond behind Curry Student Center is a popular destination for photographers and grads.

Two Northeastern graduates tossing their caps up in the air in front of a colorful mural.
Photo by Alyssa Stone/Northeastern University

Daniel Anguilu mural

For over a decade, Daniel Anguilu’s mural adjacent to Curry Student Center has produced one-of-a-kind graduation photos.

Shillman statue

The official name of Robert Shure’s bronze sculpture outside Shillman Hall is “A Man and a Cat Named Yitz,” though it’s better known as the Shillman Cat.

A photographer crouching to take a photo of two Northeastern graduates sitting on a bench talking to each other.
Photo by Alyssa Stone/Northeastern University

Churchill Quad

For flower lovers, the azaleas and daffodils on the lawn at Churchill Hall are in full bloom. For sports fans, a statue of baseball legend Cy Young is nearby.

Krentzman Quad

Beware, the line is often long, but photos sitting on the Northeastern sign in front of Krentzman along Huntington Avenue are a must for any grad.

A graduate wearing a cap and gown sitting in an armchair in front of a red curtain with the Northeastern emblem above him. Next to him is a husky statue.
Photo by Matthew Modoono/Northeastern University

Hospitality Hub

Before or after the ceremonies, graduates and their guests are invited to the Husky Hospitality Hub in the Cabot Center for photo opportunities.