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  The Graduation Guide
 Group walking in graduation gowns
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Group walking in graduation gowns
The Ceremony

Rich in style and tradition
Diplomas are "conferred" or handed out to graduating seniors at an official ceremony called commencement. A speaker usually gives a commencement address to the graduating class. The speakers selected for this event often include community dignitaries, alumni and students. The valedictorian, the highest-ranking academic student in the graduation class, usually speaks.

Your family should note that due to limited space, many schools have to limit attendance. Check with your school to see if there will be limitations on the number of people you can invite to the ceremony.

The cap and gown
Preparing to march with "Pomp and Circumstance" requires the traditional cap and gown. Here are some guidelines for the graduate on how to wear your cap and gown:
  • The cap is worn flat on the head.
  • The gown should fall midway between the knee and ankle.
  • Men should remove their caps during the school song and the National Anthem.
  • Tassels are usually worn on the right side and shifted to the left when graduates receive their diplomas.
    • What to wear
    Here are some guidelines for the graduate on how to wear your cap and gown:
  • Men generally choose to wear dark trousers and a dress shirt and tie under their gowns.
  • Women generally wear a lightweight dress or a blouse and a skirt that is shorter than the gown so it does not hang below the gown.
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