As a senior graduating this spring, (April 26th to be exact, but who’s counting), my mind is always partially flooded with the things I need to get done before the special day. So while I’m writing this for you, I’m also sorting out the plethora of things I need to do in order to get that degree, on top of passing all of my classes. But don’t worry, we got this. Some of these steps are specific to Grand Canyon University, so hopefully they will help my fellow seniors.
- Pick your graduation date!
Hopefully, you have this completed by now since the school emailed seniors a few months ago. If you didn’t receive the email or can’t find it, I recommend contacting your student services counselor.
- Apply for graduation.
The application form can be found in your student portal under “graduation.” There is a $150 fee when submitting the form, just as a heads up.
- Order your cap and gown!
You must be registered for commencement in order to order your regalia. Use the link in your confirmation email once registered. The initial deadline for orders is March 25th and the final deadline is April 4th. If you order after the initial deadline there will be an additional rush fee.
Now for the fun parts!
- Get your dress!
I still haven’t gotten a dress for graduation and I need to get on it. I’m going to look for a short flowy dress that is either white or floral patterned. Everyone will want to wear something different, so choose something that represents your style and that makes you feel most comfortable. You will want to look and feel your best on such an important day. And remember, we’re in Phoenix so remember it will be HOT.
- Get picture ready.
I haven’t done this yet either, but I plan to get some photos taken so that I can send out cards to my friends and family to let them know I am graduating. Spring is the perfect time and weather for outside photos as the flowers are in full bloom and the weather is warm!
Extra tips:
After registering, GCU gives a list of helpful tips. I wrote down some that seemed extra important or that I wasn’t aware of.
- Guests are asked to be in their seats 30 minutes before the ceremony. Doors open two hours prior.
- If you want to sit next to your friends, arrive together so you can be seated together.
- High heels are not advised.
- The ceremony is around an hour to an hour and a half.
- The clear bag policy will be enforced.
- There is no rehearsal.
Hopefully this was helpful in some way; it definitely helped me clear my head a bit. The end of the semester is always overwhelming, and even more so with a graduation ceremony at the end. So keep up the good work and study hard. To my seniors, you’re almost there, give yourself credit and grace. And congratulations. :)