How Military Husband and Wife Graduated 'Together' 5,000 Miles Apart

A military husband and his wife graduated together even though they are 5,000 miles apart. 

Alexandra and Tyler White have both been working towards degrees online from Southern New Hampshire University.

Tyler, who currently serves in the U.S Army in Hawaii, couldn’t attend the graduation because of training so the school made it possible for Alexandra to accept his degree as she walked across the stage while on Facetime with Tyler.

In a video shared of the graduation, Tyler donned his cap and gown as he virtually received his diploma and a standing ovation from the crowd. 

“I think it’s the coolest thing,” Tyler said. “It’s a big deal to finally graduate. It was rough not being able to be there.”

Alexandra and Tyler originally met in college, but after he enlisted, they found it difficult to continue their education while also balancing frequent moves, raising their three-year old son, and developing their careers. 

Thankfully, online school at SNHU made it easier for them to do so. Tyler finished his bachelor’s degree in geosciences while Alexandra earned her master’s in psychology.

“It’s a really special experience,” Alexandra said. “The last couple years have been really challenging for us. Both being in school full-time, both working full-time, and raising our small child together as well.”

Alexandra said it’s a great experience to have all their hard work pay off and to share that moment together.

“It’s an extremely satisfying to do the journey together the entire way,” Tyler added.

RELATED STORIES