Let's Go, Graduates
Graduation is a big moment. You've worked hard to get here and there are just a few more boxes to check before you walk across the commencement stage. Here are our best tips to help you prepare for graduation.
Before Commencement Day
1. Communicate with Coordinator
Make sure to read over everything your Commencement Coordinator sends you and communicate and questions you might have to them. If you haven't applied for graduation, get on that as soon as possible.
2. Attend Graduation Fair
Graduation fair is your chance to purchase your cap, gown and other regalia, order announcements and a class ring, win prizes and more.
Learn More About Graduation Fair
3. Purchase Your Cap and Gown
Purchase your cap, gown and other regalia as early as possible. Pick up or purchase your honor cord from your Commencement Coordinator if you're eligible to wear one. Double check to make sure you have everything you're supposed to. Pro tip: hang up your gown and check to see if it needs to be ironed before the ceremony.
4. reserve Your Tickets
Commencement is so much sweeter when you can celebrate with the people you love. Don't forget to reserve tickets for them. If your family and friends can't make it to the ceremony, they can catch the live stream on our YouTube channel.
4. Polish Your Resume
Your next stop after walking across the commencement stage is the professional world. Make sure you're ready to make a great first impression by connecting with the resume experts at Career and Professional Success (CAPS). They can help you perfect your resume and prepare for interviews.
Already scored a big interview? Nice work! If professional clothes aren't affordable for you right now, head to The First Lady's Attic in the David L. Eisler Center. Show your student ID and walk out with the attire you need to make a great first impression.
5. Complete Exit Counseling
If you have taken out student loans, you will need to complete Loan Exit Counseling before you graduate.
On Commencement Day
1. Double-Check Regalia
Make sure you have your cap, gown and tassel. If you're a graduate student, make sure you have your hood. All graduates must wear the appropriate regalia in order to walk in the commencement ceremony.
2. Leave Early
You should plan on arriving 45 minutes prior to your ceremony. Allow plenty of extra time for parking, there will be lots of excited graduates and their families at the ceremony venue. The ceremony will start promptly on time, so do not be late.
3. Give Your Tickets & Valuables to Your Guests
Make sure to provide your guests with their tickets. Guests will not be allowed into the ceremony without a ticket. Seating is provided on a first-come, first-served basis, so encourage your guests to arrive early. We also encourage you to leave your personal items and valuables with your guests. Commencement staff won't be available to watch items left in the ceremony venue.
4. Check-In
Check-in with your Commencement Coordinator when you arrive at the ceremony. They will provide you with your name and photo card when you check-in.
5. Get Excited!
You made it. Enjoy your commencement ceremony. We're proud of you!