You’re graduating! Here at the Alumni Engagement office, we know how rewarding college graduation can be, but we also know how hectic it can be. In order to have a stress-free commencement day, here are some tips:

1. Show up on time: Be sure to arrive at least one hour prior to the start of the ceremony with your cap and gown. Please encourage your family and guests to also arrive early. Doors will open one hour prior to the start of each ceremony.

2. Know where to go: For bachelor’s degree and master’s degree candidates with ceremonies in Redbird Arena, check-in will be at Horton Field House, located north of Redbird Arena. Enter Horton Field House from the south side, facing the Turner Hall/Redbird Arena parking lot. Doctoral degree candidates will receive separate check-in instructions via e-mail.

3. Leave your personal belongings at home: Commencement gowns do not have any pockets, and there is NO storage for personal belongings. Please only bring your cap, gown and smiling face. Leave all other personal belongings at home or with family members. The university is not responsible for any lost or stolen items. No bags, backpacks or boxes, except for purses and medical equipment, will be permitted in Redbird Arena for commencement.

4. Dress appropriately: Comfortable shoes are a MUST as you will be standing in the line-up room prior to the ceremony, and you don’t want to trip when you’re walking across the stage. In order to have the best commencement experience, please be conscious of what you wear.

5. Be responsible: Possession and/or consumption of alcohol at commencement are strictly prohibited. Any student in possession of alcohol will not be allowed to participate in commencement. Please be responsible. You don’t want to ruin your big day. Please also know that students must participate from the start to the end of the ceremony program.

6. Stop by the Alumni Association table: The Alumni Association would like to offer you a free gift! Be sure to stop by the table in Horton Field House. OR complete your new grad survey now and skip the line at the Alumni Association table. Take the survey, show your verification email, and get your gift when you check-in.

More questions about graduation?

  • For more information on professional commencement photography, ceremony scheduling, frequently asked questions, and accessibility, please visit the Graduation Services website.
  • Your family, friends, and other supporters who can’t make it to commencement can watch the ceremonies online. Live streaming of the ceremonies will be available.

One thought on “Helpful hints for a stress-free commencement

  1. john says:

    Great stuff some really good ones.