Showing up late is a sign of disrespect to your peers, your school, and yourself. Even more important than showing respect, being late will just stress you out and make you even more anxious.
Make sure the clothes and shoes you choose match the graduation ceremony’s dress code. Hang up your gown so it doesn’t get wrinkled. If the gown is wrinkled even if you’ve been hanging it for days, bring it in the bathroom with you when you take a hot shower. The steam will help release the wrinkles.
You’ll also most likely receive instructions during the rehearsal about how to properly receive a diploma as you shake the presenter’s hand. If you are really nervous, you can ask someone there, like a teacher or administrator, after the rehearsal for a little extra help. You might also have the opportunity to practice walking across the stage. Knowing where you have to walk and getting a feel for being on stage can be a lot easier when you don’t have hundreds of people in the audience. Finally, you’ll receive more specific information about any professional photographers that your school has hired for the event. You’ll find out exactly when you’re getting your picture taken and when you should smile for the camera.
If you’ve received your gown in advance, try practicing with your gown and with whatever shoes you’re wearing to become more comfortable walking.
Note if you’ve received any instructions about standing up with your row at the same time, or about how to line up and proceed to the stage. Sometimes schools or universities will have you hold onto a name card or name pronunciation card. Know if this is the procedure, and hand it over to the proper usher when the time comes. [1] X Research source
Remember to smile, or look happy or proud to be where you are. Try to look at your family and friends when they take your picture.
While you’re on stage, keep the diploma raised up after you’ve accepted it and shaken hands. Shake your presenter’s hand firmly. If you wear dangly bracelets on your right hand, consider not wearing them for the ceremony or wearing them on your left hand instead. [4] X Research source Don’t run away after you’ve accepted your diploma. There will most likely be a professional photographer on hand who will take your picture either as you receive your diploma or immediately after shaking the presenter’s hand. [5] X Research source
Again, either professional photographers or family members will be taking your picture, so proudly present the symbol of your accomplishments.
Traditionally, the tassel is worn on the right side of the cap before graduating, then is switched to the left side during tassel change. Your ceremony’s organizers will give you more information on details like tassel change at your graduation rehearsal.
Remember, the title of the song played at most graduations is “Pomp and Circumstance,” which implies that the ceremony involves dignity, formality, and tradition. [7] X Research source
If you don’t want to have to search for your cap after tossing it, you can always just wave your cap in the air. Keep your diploma on hand after the ceremony to take photos with your friends and family. While you’re celebrating, make sure to keep your diploma in good condition, especially if you receive the actual copy at the ceremony. Don’t lose it, and keep it safe so you can proudly display it in a prominent place when you get home.
