After years of studying, this is what it has all come down to – your graduation. A day to celebrate all the hard work you’ve put in, graduation is a great experience to have to round off your degree. But of course, you want to make sure that you are making the most of this day. Here are five ways that you can be sure to make the most out of your graduation.
Be well organised
Lots of information will be sent out to you in advance of graduation day about how to get your gown hired and where to go at what times. Make sure you take this into account and allow plenty of time to get your cap and gown in advance of the ceremony, as there are often long queues for this. This will allow you to get used to the gown, maximise your photo time, and allow you to reconnect with friends who you may not have been able to see over the summer.
Take lots of photos
Whilst it may seem like the most obvious way, making sure you get lots of pictures will help you to remember the days and have evidence of all your achievements. Lincoln is very lucky to have many picturesque backgrounds around the graduation venue – some popular choices are the Cathedral, the castle court, the castle square, and even on the castle walls. If you have hired your gown you will only have a limited time with it, so take as many pictures before the main ceremony as you can.
Talk to as many people as you can
As sad as the reality is, if you aren’t choosing to continue with a master’s, graduation is likely going to be the last chance for you to see any of your lecturers. Make sure to seek them out and thank them for their help over the years. Not only will this help build up good relationships for any future references, but it will also help show your appreciation in acknowledging those who got you to this day.
Take note of the speeches
The graduation ceremonies can be arduous – there’s a lot of sitting, listening and clapping. Whilst this may feel very lecture-like at times, it’s important to listen to what the speakers have to say. It can be easy to be cynical about these ‘motivational’ speeches at the ceremony, but if you listen to their words of advice you may well learn something. This is especially true in the cases of guest speakers or honorary degree receivers; these people are usually successful for a reason and may well have some good advice to give.
Plan a celebration
Graduation in itself only takes up a small part of your day. Whether it is in the morning or afternoon, make a whole day of it! You can arrange to do things with both family and your university friends on either side of the ceremony and truly celebrate what you have all achieved.
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