New Jersey Day Trip | Rutgers Graduation, Sheryl Lee Ralph Commencement Highlights & Filipino Dining

We're heading to the Garden State! Since the drive from Massachusetts to NJ can range from 4-5+ hours, it's not really a day trip destination, but this is a special occasion! We are celebrating Camilla's Master's graduation from Rutgers University!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uAC5U4SXhcw

I had never been to a rest stop, so I was pretty intrigued. The vlog shows a few of those between Massachusetts and New Brunswick, NJ.

Accessibility was great at this event; I can tell that Rutgers put thought into it with their accessible porta potties, dedicated accessible vans in addition to the buses which had side doors, and wheelchair escorts from the drop off areas to the stadium seats. The stadium even had "tiered" accessible seating which I think more venues should utilize. When I say tiered seating, I mean that below the usual accessible seating area which has no stairs, there are two rows beneath which have one or two stairs. I hate taking up the accessible seats when I am ambulatory and can do one stair below, but I also have to keep safety in mind for myself. This tiered system is a perfect solution!

The Rutgers campus is huge! We gave our best estimate of a tour on our ride in the bus to the stadium.

The highlight was the the speech from commencement speaker Sheryl Lee Ralph who plays Barbara Howard on Abbott Elementary. The speech had everything: humor, inspiration, and even singing! 10/10!

After the ceremony, we ate at a local Filipino Restaurant: La Parilla de Manila.

On the way home, we recapped our favorite moments from the trip. I hope you enjoy watching!