Article: Graduation
What is graduation?
Most educational institutions around the world will hold graduation ceremonies for students who complete a course. Graduation ceremonies vary depending upon the type of educational institution you have attended.
Graduation ceremonies are often highly traditional and solemn occasions, marking the transition of a student from academic study to the next stage of their careers.
Before graduation, students are notified of the date of the ceremony and issued tickets for friends and family. Students will then need to acquire the appropriate clothing for the ceremony.
The graduation ceremony itself is highly structured, featuring a number of speakers and then the bestowal of diplomas upon the graduating students.
Since graduation is an important step in a career, most graduands will celebrate with a party or gathering of friends and family.
Before graduation
If you have completed a course at an educational institution, such as high school or university, you will probably be invited to attend your graduation ceremony.
Potential graduands are sent a formal letter announcing their graduation. Most letters are accompanied by a pamphlet containing information about the ceremony itself. You will learn practical details such as arrival times, seating arrangements, where you can rent or purchase academic gowns, and so forth.
If you have attended a large university or college, you may be issued a limited number of tickets for friends and family. If you plan to invite more people than you have been allocated, these people may have to stand up during the ceremony.
At the graduation ceremony
Graduands often attend their ceremony in full academic regalia.
Most academic dress includes a gown or robe, a separate hood and a cap (also known as a mortarboard or bonnet). The gown and hood is trimmed in fur or coloured fabric, denoting the degree you will be awarded. For example, in Commonwealth universities, a Bachelors degree will be trimmed in white rabbit fur, whereas a masters degree will be coloured silk.
Beneath the gown, you should wear formal attire. Men can wear a dark suit, military uniform or national dress. Women should wear an appropriate dress, skirt and blouse or suit.
The mortarboard or academic cap is square-shaped and has a tassel. Before you graduate, the tassel should sit on the left side of the hat. After you graduate, the tassel should be moved to the right of the hat.
At the beginning of the ceremony, the academic staff will enter the ceremonial hall or stadium. There will then be one or two speakers who will address the graduands. These speakers can be notable public figures, alumni or selected graduands.
Each graduand is called to the stage by an academic administrator. This is often the dean, chancellor or vice-chancellor of the institution. Graduands will be told before the ceremony on appropriate protocol when addressing the chancellor. At some universities, it is protocol for students to salute or bow to the chancellor before shaking hands and accepting the diploma.
After the graduation ceremony
After the solemnity of the graduation ceremony, it is time for the graduands to celebrate. Students can gather with friends, colleagues, professors and family members. Some universities offer refreshments and photographic services.
Graduation is an important part of a person’s career and life. It marks the transition from academia to a new phase of life long learning and employment.