Graduation is a time for celebration and reflection. Whether you’re walking across a stage or cheering your son or daughter on from the sidelines, it’s a thrilling experience. But, as thrilling as it is, it can also be confusing. You may feel a little lost when handling all of the logistics of graduation, like who’s invited, what to do for seating, and how to celebrate afterward. Don’t worry. We’ve covered everything you should know about graduation, from dress to ceremony to post-graduation plans. Graduation season is upon us, so it’s time to take the plunge finally. From caps and gowns to diplomas, graduation ceremonies are steeped in tradition. Each school has its own unique ritual, ranging from white robes and caps to tassels and leis. But one thing stays the same – graduation is a time for celebration.
Graduation ceremonies are part of the rites of passage that mark our passage from childhood to adulthood. It’s a rite of passage that, in the United States, is almost universally celebrated by students, school staff, and their family members. Graduation ceremonies for schools are standard, but ceremonies for colleges can be quite different. Here are some traditions that often come with graduation.
THE STEPS OF A GRADUATION CEREMONY
Getting Seated
Getting seated takes a lot of time in the graduation ceremony. Often, graduates need to be sat in their specific seats in preparation for going on stage in the correct order to receive their diplomas.
Academic Procession
The Academic Procession is a tradition at Mount Holyoke College that began in 1841. The ceremony, which happens during Commencement, is a way for students to honor their college history and celebrate their achievements. The Academic Procession involves 170 students, including 2 students of color, who march around the quad in a line, led by a HOD carrier wearing a gown.
Presentation Of Awards and Degrees
A Presentation of Awards & Degrees is a ceremony where an individual is awarded a certificate, letter, or diploma. It is also a ceremony where an organization or a company gives awards, and the individual or the organization is acknowledged.
Walking The Stage
Walking the stage in a graduation gown is one of the most memorable accomplishments in a person’s life, but getting to that stage isn’t always easy. Although many schools offer after-school programs to help students get into college, getting accepted to post-secondary schools is still no easy task. Only 50% of high school students who apply to college are admitted, and 33% of students must reapply to post-secondary schools each year.
Keynote Address from Guest Speaker
A keynote speaker is a person whose reputation/reputation precedes them. They have an established speaking career and business that paved the way for this role. They are not only recognized for their influence but because of their impressive accomplishments and credentials.
Valedictory Address
A Valediction is a message of thanks and recognition to dedicated veterans. Today’s society often has veterans standing at attention and proudly displaying their medals to signify their military service. However, there is a population that does not stand for this—a population that has been overlooked for many years and is disrespected in far too many ways. That population is the civilian veteran.
Graduation ceremonies are about celebrating students’ accomplishments and expressing how important they are to the community. Seniors are honored with speeches and prize giving, and the graduating students dedicate their diplomas to their parents.