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Preparation for graduation, a girl in a graduation cap

Preparation for graduation: How to prepare for the big ceremony

Graduation can be a daunting day, but preparing for your graduation is what will get you ready. I will be attending my graduation soon and I’m feeling very nervous. So if you’re feeling the same, you’re not alone!  

Stay up to date with graduation announcements 

Staying up to date with announcements will help with booking your attendance, getting guests tickets, and even additional tickets. Checking my inbox became a daily ritual to help ease any anxiety I felt. If your university makes any changes, you’ll also have enough time to prepare too. Sharing updates on social media and messaging your closest friends about it will also help spread the word. 

Send out graduation invites 

Sending out invites to friends and family will delight them. However, keep in mind your personal boundaries and invite those who only have your back. You deserve to celebrate your graduation in style and comfort. Having your closest people to smile and pose with on the big day should be an enjoyable experience. 

Order your graduation attire

Having your attire ready for the big day is so important. Order your cap and gown really early to save yourself the worry. I recommend ordering at least four weeks before the big ceremony. This will give you the best possible delivery time, even with delays! Don’t forget to model your confidence when wearing it on your big day. You’ll look picture-perfect for professional photos so don’t shy away from them. 

Plan your journey 

Preparation for graduation, a girl taking a picture

Attending your graduation ceremony early is key so make sure to plan your route! Always have a backup route and check the latest travel updates. The weather may have other plans so getting there early may help you escape unexpected rain, especially if you’re taking public transport. It’s worth noting these travel essentials for your bag: camera, Oyster or travel card, water, umbrella, moisturiser, pen and university identity card. 

Get up early and have a good breakfast

Be an early bird to prepare yourself for later. It’s tempting to curl up in your duvet for a little longer, but getting up early is a great habit to practise for important events. There’s nothing like slowly getting ready, with no rush at all! Give yourself a good breakfast too. Nourishing yourself with a healthy meal will give you a great start to your graduation day. 

Take lots of photos

Do not be afraid to ask your family and friends to take plenty of photos. Take your professional pictures as well as casual ones too. Experiment with different poses, it will flatter your graduation gown. Also, ask staff if there is a photo booth, and keep an eye out for photo props! Share your pictures on social media and LinkedIn as well.

Check out graduation souvenirs after the ceremony

Remember that you don’t have to spend a fortune on souvenirs but it’s nice to appreciate the efforts made by your university. You may be in for a real treat so don’t underestimate your uni either! Whether it’s a postcard or printed t-shirt, there will be something for everyone. Even if you can only window shop, it’s still worth browsing.

Buy yourself flowers to celebrate your graduation

Flowers are the most beautiful gift for crowning your big day. There is so much variety available. Roses and daisies are among my favourites! Not only are they picture-perfect but they smell lovely too. And holding a bouquet of flowers in your graduation attire will definitely make you smile. You deserve to blossom at this important event. 

If you’re wondering what to do after university or if you’re feeling lost after graduating from university, click on these helpful links.

Find more self-improvement articles here >

Written by Nisha Patel

Illustrated by Francesca Mariama