I’m not the first person to say it and I won’t be the last. Graduation is coming up quickly and I have no idea what’s coming next. Between deadlines for enrollment, waiting for important emails, and a new job;, the future feels uncertain. It’s important to remember during these times of transition that things take time, and while the path ahead may not be clear, there is one thing we can do: prepare.

On that note, let’s go over the graduation essentials and what to do to prepare.

Cap and Gown

What is a graduation without a cap and gown? Probably more colorful, but that’s beside the point. Lake Sumter State College has requirements for your cap and gown depending on what you’re graduating with. Students being rewarded their associates are to wear a black cap and gown while students being awarded with their bachelors are to wear the forest green cap and gown. Both options can be found at Graduation Source. The deadline to order is April 6th for regular shipping and April 13th for expedited shipping.

Tickets

Ensuring you have the right amount of tickets for your loved ones is a major part of making graduation memories. When applying for commencement, there is a section for how many tickets you wish to have.

Attire

Something I’ve personally seen before is someone wearing their cap and gown without clothing underneath. Don’t be that person. Semi-formal or fully formal attire are the typical things to wear under your gown, but no one is stopping you from wearing something more comfortable. Of course, walking the stage in bunny slippers isn’t ideal, but comfortable sneakers or shoes would do the job! Also, if you plan to wear a stole or cord, be sure to order them ahead of time!

Extras

Let’s be honest, graduation ceremonies take forever. Speaker after speaker, names called after another, the ceremony has many sections that draw it out longer than typically expected. Consider bringing chapstick or something for your lips in case they start to dry. You can also bring a packet of travel tissues to fit in your purse or pocket. Something else you can bring is an umbrella in case it rains. The last thing you’d want is for your outfit to be soaked with rainwater, or your hair to be ruined.