Students and their families look forward to graduation. Francesca Bourdier felt that spending the important day with her tabby cat, Suki, added to its enjoyment.
Bourdier intended to recognize Suki’s participation in all of her mother’s online lessons over the course of the previous two years. She created a miniature, Suki-sized cap and gown before the ceremony that was identical to her own.
“It was just me and her,” Bourdier told The Dodo, “so when graduation came, I knew I had to celebrate her, too.”
Due to the pandemic, most of Bourdier’s classes took place online — but she was hardly ever alone. As soon as Suki heard her mom’s class start on Zoom, she’d join her in front of the computer.
“She would just come onto my desk and lay next to it as if she was listening,” Bourdier said. “And if I was taking notes on my iPad, she would just sit on top of it.”
After seeing Suki’s photo online, Bourdier decided to adopt her from a nearby shelter in September of 2020. In an effort to find her, Bourdier claimed to have driven to three separate sites. There was a lengthy queue of individuals waiting to adopt Suki when she at last found the appropriate shelter.
By the end of the day, Bourdier was the one who had the cute kitty since her tenacity had paid off. Wow, I get to be her parent, I simply thought when I finally got her, she said.
Suki has always enjoyed learning new things since she joined the family, becoming an expert at skills like high-fiving, twirling, and giving her paw when asked. When the diligent cat started showing up to each and every one of Bourdier’s Zoom lectures, it seemed only logical.
Suki’s presence in class gave Bourdier the emotional support she required to get her degree online. Bourdier found out she wasn’t alone when one of her teachers requested the class to display their pets. Almost every kid had their pet nearby, which Bourdier thought was great to watch.
Bourdier’s college experience was made even more enjoyable by graduating alongside Suki, but it is only one of many goals the two intend to achieve together. “[Suki] is simply that wonderful,” said Bourdier.
