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It’s officially May, so for those of you who will be graduating this year, you’re probably feeling a mix of complete excitement and something I can only call “not-wanting-it-to-end-ness.” It seems like just yesterday you were a freshman, and now you’re almost done being a senior!
Graduation can be a bittersweet moment, but it’s a part of growing up and also a big achievement. When it comes to the actual graduation day, there’s a few things you can do to get yourself prepared so at least the day won’t be stressful on top of all of the other emotions that you may be feeling.
In fact, as an early graduation gift, we have a bit of advice to pass on to you. Here are 10 things we wish we knew before graduation:
Decide On An Outfit
The morning of graduation will probably be a little nuts, so already have an outfit figured out and ready to go. Make sure whatever you decide to wear under your graduation robe is comfortable for you to both walk and sit in. Also, be sure your shoes are comfy and that you can walk in them - you don't want to trip or be getting a blister when you're on stage getting your diploma! Source: Shutterstock.comDeal With Graduation Robes
Don't forget to iron your graduation robe (they usually come folded up and if you don't iron it, you'll be full of creases). As far as graduation caps, play around with how you might want to wear your hair ahead of time. That said, also know that those hats will probably look a little goofy no matter what (I mean, there's probably a reason we don't wear them for any other occasions). Rock that cap with a smile, and remember all your classmates are in the same boat as you. Source: Shutterstock.comPlan For The Weather
Speaking of what to wear, if it's going to be hot and your graduation is outside, wear something made of a light fabric under your graduation gown, bring a pair of sunglasses or tote along one of those portable mini-fans. If it's raining, make sure you have a way to transport your graduation gown so it doesn't get splashed with mud. Basically, just be flexible and ready to make any small tweaks so that Mother Nature doesn't wreak any havoc on your day. Source: Shutterstock.comGet Some Sleep...
Graduation day can be totally crazy and busy. Although in the days leading up to graduation, you may have already felt like you're on "summer time" (aka staying up super late), try to get some rest the night before the ceremony so you won't be tempted to nod off during graduation. This puppy sleeping in a graduation robe? Super cute. However, you sleeping during your own graduation will make you seem rude, and you don't want that to be people's final memory at your school. Source: Shutterstock.com...And Make Sure To Eat
In addition to getting sleep, also eat before the ceremony. You don't want your stomach rumbling or to feel lightheaded. Graduations can be really long and there isn't usually the opportunity for you to easily cut out of the ceremony to get a snack fix. Also, not to totally be like your mom, but make sure you go to the bathroom before the ceremony starts. The last thing you want to do is be sitting there needing to go while your principal slowwwlllyyy reads down the list of names for an hour. Source: Shutterstock.comThank Your Teachers
Teachers want their students to go on and do great things, but we don't always take the time to thank them. On graduation day, let your teachers know how they've impacted you or just that you appreciate their work. Also, don't be afraid to stay in touch with favorite teachers in the future. They like to know where students end up or if you come across something that you learned about in their class out there in the "real world." Source: Shutterstock.comGet That Yearbook Signed
Have your classmates sign your yearbook and sign theirs as well. Yeah, it can be a little tiring to keep signing your name or tracking down classmates, but these mementos can last well beyond graduation and make for a welcome trip down memory lane if you are ever feeling nostalgic or homesick. It can also be an easy place to collect info about how to stay in touch. Source: Shutterstock.comFigure Out How To Stay In Touch
Speaking of staying in touch, not to be dramatic but graduation could very likely be the last time you ever see some of your classmates. You probably already know how to stay in touch with close friends, but if there was someone you weren't super close to who you wanted to get to know better, now really is the time to say what you need to say or make a plan moving forward before you both get so busy with your "next steps" that it may be hard to re-connect later down the road. Source: Shutterstock.comIndulge Your Family
Graduation means a lot not only to you, but your family. Yes, graduating is your accomplishment, but often they were the people there to provide emotional, academic, and financial support to help you get to where you are. Let them take a million pictures and throw you a barbecue where they invite your neighbors. They just want to show you that they are proud, so even if it's maybe not entirely your style, try to remember it is an achievement for them, too. Source: Shutterstock.comFinally, Take Time For You
Seriously, graduation can be a big blur of finishing classes, awards ceremonies, saying goodbyes, other people's graduation parties, and so on. Make sure you are taking some time for you to process everything. It doesn't necessarily have to be on the exact day, but do make sure you take a minute to just celebrate you and be proud of your own accomplishments without feeling like you need to report to anyone else. You deserve it! Source: Shutterstock.comAre you looking forward to graduation? Are you feeling a little nervous? If you’ve already graduated, what advice do you have for soon-to-be graduates? Tell us in the comments!
Check out this cute graduation comic!
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