Difference between revisions of "Prepare For a Graduation"

#Study for final exams.<ref name="rf1">http://www.fastweb.com/student-life/articles/the-10-steps-every-student-should-take-to-prepare-for-graduation</ref> With a graduation on the horizon, the final weeks of class may suddenly seem less important. The excitement and nervousness can be distracting, and rightfully so! Big changes are on the way. However, final exams still need to be studied for, since those grades will contribute to your final GPA.

#Return school property and pay any outstanding fees.<ref name="rf2">http://diverseeducation.com/article/52813/</ref> Go through your things and make sure you’ve returned any school property you have. This includes library books, uniforms, technology and any other equipment you’ve borrowed or checked out from your school. Keep in mind that some schools won’t send you your diploma or release your transcripts if you have any outstanding fees.

#Order your cap and gown set and graduation announcements.<ref name="rf3">http://www.commencement.buffalo.edu/grad.php</ref> The last several weeks before graduation can get very hectic, but don't forget to order your cap and gown. Once you do, confirm the delivery date. Choose your graduation announcements and order them as soon as you are able. Once you get the announcements home, start a list of people you want to invite to the ceremony. Gather the addresses you need for mailing and start sending the announcements out.

#* Find out if your school has limited seating or restrictions about how many people you can invite. Adhere to any guidelines.<ref name="rf4">http://www.jostens.com/grad/grad_cp_hs_grad_guide_ceremony.html</ref>

#Reach out to your favorite teachers, classmates and school personnel.<ref name="rf2" /> In many cases, these final days of class will be the last time you see some of the great people you’ve met at your school over the years. Make it a point to visit the people who’ve positively contributed to your experience as a student. Thank them for it and let them know what it means to you. If you want to keep in touch, gather phone numbers and email addresses.

#Visit some of your favorite places on campus.<ref name="rf2" /> Take the time to return to some of your favorite spots at school and savor your last moments there. This is a great opportunity to reflect on your time as a student there. Recall the good memories you’ve experienced in these places and fix them in your mind.

#Check the ceremony agenda.<ref name="rf5">https://www.kent.ac.uk/congregations/prepare/checklist.html</ref> Make sure you are well aware of the schedule. Confirm what time you need to be on site and plan to arrive early. Double check when your family and friends should arrive, as well. Remind them in advance so that they will also be on time and are able to find decent parking and a good seat.

#* There is a proper way to wear a cap and gown. Your school will have rules about how they want you to present yourself in your regalia. Find these details out as soon as possible.<ref name="rf6">http://www.jostens.com/grad/grad_cp_hs_grad_guide_main.html</ref>

#* Confirm what side the cap tassel should be on before and after you receive your diploma.<ref name="rf7">http://www.pittstate.edu/office/registrar/helpful-hints-to-prepare-for-graduation.dot</ref>

#Choose an outfit you can move easily in. Graduation is a fun and exciting event, but it’s also a formal one. Most schools set expectations for clothing worn under your cap and gown. Find out if there are any dress code requirements and follow them.  The most common suggestions are that graduates wear dark shoes and business formal attire like dark-colored slacks/dresses. Males are often encouraged to wear dress shirts with ties and dark slacks.<ref name="rf7" />

#Prepare your transcripts and think about financial aid. If you plan to go on to higher education or additional schooling, make sure everything is in place. Get your transcripts ready, visit financial aid offices and apply to the schools of your choice in plenty of time to make a final decision. Find out if there are any testing requirements you have to meet, such as the GRE or GMAT, before starting school.<ref name="rf1" />

#* Research funding resources and grant opportunities.<ref name="rf8">http://www.idealist.org/info/GradEducation/Resources/Preparing/Success</ref>

#Update your resume.<ref name="rf2" /> If you plan on entering the workforce after graduation, go ahead and start preparing your resume. Keep it concise and clear. List your experience, accomplishments and skills clearly. Choose three to five professional references. Check with those people to confirm they have no issue with being your reference. Gather any letters of recommendation you might need. Prepare an interview outfit.<ref name="rf1" />

#* Visit your school’s career center to see if they have any resources to help you find work, internships or scholarship opportunities.<ref name="rf8" />

#Check your credit report.<ref name="rf2" /> If you’re planning on purchasing a car, renting an apartment or buying a home after graduation, a credit check will most certainly be run. Most professional places of employment will check your credit history before hiring you, as well. There are websites online where you can obtain a free credit report. Do this and examine yours closely for errors.

#Clean up your social media accounts.<ref name="rf2" /> It is standard practice these days for most places of employment to check your social media accounts before hiring you. These accounts are easy to access and people can tell a lot about you by looking at your communication and behavior online. Comb through your Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, YouTube and any other social media accounts and eliminate anything glaringly irresponsible.

#* Create a LinkedIn account and put some time into filling out your profile professionally.<ref name="rf9">http://denison.edu/feature/5-things-to-prepare-for-post-graduate-life</ref>