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In very simple words, Graduation Day is one of the most important milestones in your student life. The journey you had so far and this particular day will be celebrated on a grand scale. It is this wonderful day when you will receive your degree upon completion of your studies. However, that’s not it. There’s a lot more to Graduation Day than just walking the stage wearing a gown and receiving the degree. I am saying this because I experienced the entire process first-hand just some time back and I am so thrilled to share the experience with you. Are you excited to know what all happens on a Graduation Day? Let me take you through a virtual tour and help you understand everything in this guide on – What is graduation day?
What Is Graduation Day? | A Guide To Graduation Day
Studying is the one thing that you have been doing since your childhood, isn’t it? Pre-school, elementary school, middle school, high school and college are amongst the few places you have visited countless times so far. Education has been an inseparable part of your life till now. The day when your studies formally end and you are declared a ‘Graduate’ is tagged as Graduation Day. Now you know the answer to the question: what day is graduation day? It is one of those important occasions that is often described as a “rite of passage” in the life of students. The graduation ceremonies differ across universities all over the globe but I will help you achieve a general idea of this day.
Are you wondering what is Convocation Day? The answer is that it is the same as Graduation Day. Convocation Ceremony is another term that is used by people to refer to the Graduation Ceremony.
The lasting memory of your university life will be this Graduation Day. Hence, it is important that you have a good idea about things that will happen on this day and how you should go about it. Continue reading this post on ‘What Is Graduation Day?’ to know everything.
What Is Graduation Day?: Tips To Prepare For Graduation Ceremony
Starting from the moment when the date of Graduation Day is announced to making sure everything is in place the day before Graduation Day, these tips will help you out.
- Keep a check on the mails or university student portal to check the finalised date and venue of Graduation Day.
- Ensure you apply for the guest tickets as early as possible to avoid end-moment disappointment.
- Your university will encourage you to hire your own gown and graduation cap in advance. It is up to you whether you wish to rent the gown or buy one. Some people do buy graduation attire to keep for memories.
What Is Graduation Day?: What To Do On Graduation Day
You will start this big day by getting dressed up in your graduation gown and hat. Next, you will have to travel to the venue along with the guests, which will be mostly your family members. Once you arrive at the location you will be separated from your family and then requested to enter a separate room with your peers.
The staff and ceremony planners will have the plan ready to get everyone in the ceremony room quickly and efficiently. You will be sitting in this room along with your batchmates, most likely in alphabetical order. Your guests will also get assistance in finding their seats. Now we come to the main part of the day.
Also Read: How To Live And Work In The UK After Graduating
Academic Procession, Welcome Address and Presentation of Awards and Degrees
Over the course of the next 15-20 minutes, the academic procession will enter the ceremony. The procession is made up of university staff and board members. They will also be dressed in academic attire. You have to remain standing until the entire academic procession and Chancellor have taken their seats.
Once the Chancellor is seated, the Vice-Chancellor or President of the academic board whom you recognise will give a brief welcome address to all faculty, graduates, and family members.
Next is the moment you have been waiting for since the beginning of time. The distribution of degrees and ‘walking the stage’.
Degrees and awards are usually presented in the alphabetical order of the department. Depending on your school, different degree levels are presented first such as honorary degrees, doctoral, or masters.
What Is Graduation Day?: Walking The Stage
You have seen this scene many times in movies but you will be living it right now. Walking the stage is the most important part of the entire ceremony. Your entire row will be escorted to the foot of the stage where you’ll be asked to wait in line. Once it’s time you’ll hear your name called, walk across the stage to shake the Chancellor’s hand and stop to take a photo. This is the part of the ceremony where your family and friends will cheer as loud as possible and applaud you on this major accomplishment.
Here’s how it works in-depth:
- When your name and degree classification are called, you’ll walk across the stage.
- You’ll then shake the chancellor’s hand with your right hand.
- Then you’ll receive a cylinder/diploma (Usually, you’ll get your actual degree certificate before or after your graduation ceremony).
- Some universities will take photos of each graduate shaking the chancellor’s hand.
- Then you’ll walk back to your seat and enjoy the remainder of the ceremony.
This moment will bring about a conflict of emotions as you’ll reflect on your entire journey so far. You will be nervous, excited and happy all at the same time.
Recommended Reading: Did you hear about these postgraduate scholarships in the UK?
The ceremony ends with some speeches and other notable mentions. Don’t forget to indulge in an amazing photo session with everyone you know. After all, these are the moments that you will cherish forever.
What Is Graduation Day?: Final Words
Recall all the hard work that you have put into earning a degree. Think of all the contributions and sacrifices your family has made. Think of all the perks of being a college graduate, both professionally and personally. When you’re old and grey and looking back on your life, your graduation day will probably be one of the memories you are really proud of. Consequently, do your best to take a few moments throughout the day to absorb everything that’s going on. It can be challenging, but after everything you’ve done to make your graduation possible, you’re definitely worth the few extra moments it might take to relax and congratulate yourself on a job well done.
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