BOONE, N.C. – Appalachian State is working to find a way for students to still have graduation in May despite the coronavirus. It is planning a virtual graduation.

Officials say details are not finished just yet, but they want to make sure students are honored for their work. They do have a commencement team working to find the best possible solution.

Some students say despite the online graduation, they hope to attend in December so they can walk.

"Graduation only happens once in our lives. I was really looking forward to just walking across that stage, awkwardly shaking the chancellor's hand, and getting that hug from my parents. I had a lot of family members that were going to come down to North Carolina and see me and everything. I'm not sure if that’s ever going to happen," senior Justin Lundy said.

University staff say it is important that wherever students are on that day in May, they are able to move their tassel and become alumni.

All students will also be invited to attend graduation in December.