A graduation day is a big milestone in a person’s life. It’s a day that reflects on their journey through education and it’s also a time to celebrate all the people who helped them along the way. Family members, friends and mentors are all in attendance to support the graduate, a feeling that is truly special.
On arrival at the ceremony you’ll be separated from your guests and asked to enter a room where you’ll be seated alongside your fellow graduands in alphabetical order of your last name. This is a very organised process to help everyone find their seat quickly and there’ll be staff on hand to assist you if you get lost.
During the ceremony it’s customary to stand during the academic procession where senior university academics and staff will walk onto the stage in their academic attire. After this there will be a welcome speech from the president or vice-chancellor of your university before you’re called up to receive your degree.
While it might not be the most popular idea to gift your grad, many families opt for giving their graduate a small amount of money they can put towards the extras that college brings (new laptop for school, new clothes, a trip to a music festival). It’s a useful and practical present that can be appreciated by anyone, even if it doesn’t have quite as much “wow factor” as a huge party.