Eleanor Finch
The definition of an alumnus or alumni is a former pupil or former student. There is some debate as to whether the term alumnus refers only to students who have completed a degree, or whether it can also include students who attended but did not graduate. Some universities, such as Harvard, consider anyone whose name appears on their alumni records as alumni, even if they did not receive a degree. However, these individuals are considered associate members and do not have the same privileges as regular members. Ultimately, each school is free to decide whom it will consider an alumnus or alumna.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition of "alumni" | "Former pupils" or "former students" |
| Definition of "alumnus" | "Former pupil" or "former student", traditionally a male graduate |
| Whether "alumni" includes students who didn't graduate | Some sources say yes, others say no |
| Whether receiving a master's degree makes someone an alumnus | Yes, if they attended the school |
| Whether it's strange to wear alumni merchandise while still a student | Some sources say yes, others say no |
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What You'll Learn
You are an alumnus/alumna if you graduated
The term "alumnus" is derived from the Latin word for a former pupil or former student. "Alumni" is the plural form of "alumnus" and refers to a group of former students. While some schools consider anyone who attended their institution an alumnus/alumna, others maintain that only those who have graduated can be considered alumni.
For example, the rules for the Harvard alumni association state that regular members include recipients of all degrees granted by the University and Radcliffe College, as well as members of all University Faculties. However, others whose names appear on the alumni records of the University but have not received degrees are considered associate members. They may attend meetings and take part in activities but cannot vote for Overseers of the University or Directors of the Harvard Alumni Association (HAA).
Similarly, Princeton's website states that upon getting a degree (graduate or undergraduate), one becomes an alumnus/alumna. However, it is also noted that one can be a member of the 'alumni association' and appear on the 'alumni records' without getting a degree.
Therefore, if you have graduated, you are likely considered an alumnus/alumna by your institution, especially if you received a degree. However, it is worth checking with your specific institution, as different schools may have different guidelines.
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You can be an alumnus/alumna without graduating
The term "alumni" is often associated with individuals who have completed their studies and graduated from an educational institution. However, it is important to note that one can be considered an alumnus or alumna without necessarily having graduated. The broader definition of "alumni" may include former students who did not graduate but attended the institution for a significant period.
The Latin root of the word "alumni" is tied to the concept of nourishment and fostering. In Roman law, the term "alumnus" described a child placed in foster care. This historical context underscores the idea that alumni are those who have been "nourished" or fostered by an educational institution, regardless of whether they completed their studies.
Additionally, the term "alumni" is not solely limited to the realm of academia. It can also be used to refer to former employees, members of an organization, contributors, or even former inmates. These alternative usages further highlight the flexibility of the term and its potential disassociation from graduation requirements.
A notable example of an alumnus who did not graduate is Burt Reynolds, who is considered an alumnus of Florida State University despite not completing his degree. Similarly, Bill Gates is often regarded as an alumnus of Harvard, although he took a leave of absence during his sophomore year and never returned to finish his studies.
In conclusion, while the term "alumni" is frequently associated with graduates, it is not a requirement to have graduated to be considered an alumnus or alumna. The broader definition encompasses former students who have attended an institution for a significant duration, reflecting the Latin root of the word, which signifies the idea of fostering and nourishment.
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Alumnus is the singular, male form of alumni
The words "alumni," "alumnus," and "alumna" are all derived from Latin and refer to graduates or former students of an educational institution. While the words are gender-neutral in a figurative sense, they are often used to refer to specific genders in more formal contexts.
"Alumnus" is the singular, male form of "alumni." It is used to refer to an individual male graduate. For example, one might say, "He is an alumnus of Concordia University Texas." The word "alumni" is the plural form, referring to a group of male graduates or a group of male and female graduates. For instance, "Concordia's alumni are taking the world by storm."
The term "alumna" is used to refer to a single female graduate. For example, "She is an alumna of Harvard University." When referring to a group of female graduates, the plural form "alumnae" is used.
In more casual conversation, the term "alum" is often used as a gender-neutral, informal reference to any graduate, regardless of gender. The plural form of "alum" is "alums." While this slang term is acceptable in casual settings, most grammar experts recommend using the proper Latin terms in professional or formal contexts.
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Alumna is the singular, female form of alumni
The words "alumni", "alumnus", "alumna", and "alumnae" are all derived from Latin and refer to graduates of educational institutions. The specific word used depends on the gender and number of the graduates being referred to.
"Alumni" is a gender-neutral plural form that refers to a group of male graduates or a group of graduates of mixed gender. "Alumnus" is the masculine singular form, used to refer to an individual male graduate. "Alumnae" is the feminine plural form, used to refer to a group of female graduates. Finally, "alumna" is the feminine singular form used to refer to a single female graduate.
"Alum" is an informal term that can be used to refer to any graduate, regardless of gender. This term has also taken on an English plural, "alums", which can be used to refer to a group of graduates of any gender.
It is important to use the correct term when describing the type of graduate, especially in professional settings or on a resume.
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Alums is a gender-neutral alternative
The words "alumni" and "alumnus" are derived from Latin and are typically gendered. "Alumnus" refers to a male graduate, while "alumni" is the plural form, referring to a group of male graduates or a mixed-gender group. The female equivalent is "alumna" for a singular graduate and "alumnae" for a group of female graduates.
However, as many organizations now avoid using masculine terms for mixed-gender groups, the term "alums" has emerged as a gender-neutral alternative. "Alum" is the singular, gender-neutral form, and "alums" is the plural form. This slang term is considered acceptable and increasingly common, especially in casual conversation. While some grammar experts recommend using the formal Latin terms in professional settings, "alums" is a useful option to avoid gender-specific language.
The term "alums" is a simplified and inclusive way to refer to a group of graduates without specifying gender. It is formed by adding an "s" to the singular form, "alum", which is a shortened version of the longer, gendered Latin words. This informality makes it a convenient and easily understandable alternative.
While "alums" is widely accepted, it is not universally recognized. Some people may still prefer using the traditional Latin terms, especially in formal or academic contexts. Additionally, the Latin origin of these terms is important to note, as it highlights the historical gender distinctions in the language.
In conclusion, "alums" is a practical and inclusive option for referring to a group of graduates of any gender. It simplifies the language, avoids potential gender biases, and adapts to the modern need for gender-neutral terminology. As a widely accepted alternative, "alums" is a useful term to employ when discussing graduates in a gender-insensitive manner.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, recipients of master's degrees are alumni. However, the definition of an "alumnus" is not always clear-cut and can include students who attended a school but did not graduate.
No, as long as you received a degree, you are considered an alumnus.
It depends on the school, but some universities, like Harvard, consider recipients of honorary degrees to be alumni.
It depends on the school, but generally, you need to have received a degree to be considered an alumnus. However, some universities consider anyone who attended the school an alumnus.
No, alumni are typically considered "former students." However, this may vary depending on the university.
