4 Things to Think About Before You Graduate
Graduating is an exciting time for anyone. You've spent the last three years broke, tired and mentally dishevelled. So graduating is a massive deal and something every student deserves no matter what classification you get!
But it can be quite an overwhelming time, currently, you're juggling your last assignments whilst also trying to sort out getting tickets, deciding on an outfit, transport or hotels for family (depending on where you live), how you'll have your hair, or trying to work out what the weather is going to do. It can be quite stressful, as well as really exciting, but it can be hard to find that balance. So here are some hints and tips to ensure your day goes off without a hitch, hopefully, it makes you feel less overwhelmed and stressed too!
Get the Small Things Sorted
By 'small things', I'm referring to inviting whoever you'd like to be there, buy the tickets and make sure that you've ticked the box to say you're going. Other things that you must do which should be done in good time is ordering gowns and photography packages. You may not want a photography package and that's ok, but definitely order your gown ASAP (Tip: make sure you have a tape measure handy when ordering your robes).
The Outfit
Typically, graduation happens in the summer, so you're likely to get great warm and sunny weather. You should think about your outfit in the spring, this gives you loads of time to find something you like. Make sure you try loads of different styles and cuts on in varying colours and bring a friend with you for a second opinion. If you leave it too late, there may not be a whole lot of choice available to you, especially after everyone has come and raided the clothes rails ;)
Shoes are something else you have to think about, go for versatile shoes, something which will go with whatever dress/suit you decide to wear. I went for nude heels when I graduated, perhaps pick shoes of a similar colour, this will ensure that, even if you change your mind about your outfit, you won't have the panic of buying new shoes as well.
Things to Bring on the Day
When you receive your graduation confirmation email, there'll be some information on there that you'll really need to read and take into account. You'll be informed as to what you're required to bring with you on the day in order for the graduation to go smoothly.
When I graduated, I brought order confirmation for the tickets, the schedule, my old student card, confirmation of my photography package. The list goes on. It's also not all about what they ask you to bring with you either. Some of it is common sense, think about what you've pre-booked, bring order conformations to prevent you potentially missing out as a result of any electronic problems for example.
Make your own checklist of bits and bobs to bring, and on the day, make sure you have everything on the list. It may also be helpful to ask other people what they're bringing. Even down to some pretty flats that you can change into when your feet get sore in those lovely heels you'll be wearing for most of the day!
Arrive an Hour Early
This may seem ridiculous. Surely there's no reason to be this early, right? Wrong. In fact, getting there an hour early is about right. There are so many things that need doing before you sit in your seat and revel in your achievements. You'll need to queue to get your gown, then have your robes adjusted and pinned by a professional, which again takes time. You'll then have to have a photo taken (I recommend doing this beforehand, especially in the summer as your hair can become flat or frizzy throughout the day for example.
You'll then need to queue to let the university know you've arrived. You may also want some time to take a few pictures before you leave your family to go into the venue. It's always better not to rush in these situations, especially seeing as it's more than likely only going to happen once! Make the most of it and enjoy you day :)
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I hope you enjoyed this post. Let me know when your graduation is. Have you already had one and have any additional tips for future graduates? Leave them in the comments below. I'll see you soon with another post!
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