Though the surroundings of Harvard's first Commencement--a lone building and an apple tree--were sparse, the ceremony was the equivalent of an obstacle course for the Class of 1642.

To receive the "Booke of Arts" that symbolized the degree, graduates had to undergo tests in classical tongues at the ceremony, proving themselves and dazzling the distinguished audience (or so administrators hoped).

A key showcase for such academic prowess was the Latin Oration, an address by a top graduating scholar to the audience.

Three-hundred and forty-nine years later, the Latin Oration is one of the few Commencement traditions that has held, as Harvard administrators are still eager to impress the audience with students' skills.

In 1642, though, Latin, Greek and Hebrew were familiar languages to the audience. Then, graduates used the orations to showcase speaking skills before influential elders who could give them jobs. Forget about interviews--it was prowess in Latin conjugation that counted.

On Commencement Day 2000, Kathleen A. Stetsko '00 will stand before a similar audience of proud parents and influential community members.

Her career isn't on the line; she's already taken a job at Sombasa Media in Boston.

Her academic ability isn't being tested; Stetsko will graduate with a degree magna cum laude in Classics.