Importance of a graduation ceremony
Postsecondary education schools are not required to to hold a graduation ceremony for their graduates.
Though I understand this may not necessarily need to be required I am a little shocked at the idea that certain school would actually opt out of this. Graduations acts as ameans of something for enrolled students to look forward to and work towards. It is a celebration of their acheivements and goals.
As an admissions rep I also find showing pictures of graduation ceremonies and explaining to students about graduation often excites them. Potential students being able to picture themselves in a cap and gown and being recognized for their acheivements acts as motivation and encouragement.
I don't quite understand why a school would choose not to hold a graduation ceremony (regardless of if it's required or not).
Thoughts?
@matthewmeeks : Having taught at the post secondary and secondary levels, I have experienced being part of graduation at both levels. Just from the stand point of the school, it is a way to promote the ideas and values of the institution to the community around it. For students it has always been my experience that graduation was just as important as getting the degree. The since of pride and ownership that comes with the graduation experience is huge. It is a fitting closure to one path and the gatekeeper to another. I would dare say that any school worth its salt has a graduation. Maybe that should be part of credentialing?
-Tom Hawkins
I truly feel graduations are one of the most important part of what we do as admissions individuals. What is better than seeing your students walk across the stage? It is very rewarding and makes me appreciate what I do for all the students.
@matthewmeeks :I agree. Why would you deny your students the opportunity to have a graduation.
We have graduation twice a year. It's a way to cut back on costs, but it still allows our students to celebrate their culmination and success with their peers. As part of the graduation ceremony we showcase our students work.
Graduation is a celebration for student's family and friends to attend. Many students did not graduate from High School, earned GED; therfore NO crossing that stage. So. yes---i'm ALL for a Graduation Cermony with A SMILE:)
@matthewmeeks : I can definitely see your point for larger schools. However, some schools, like mine, are very small. So, an actual graduation ceremony may be a little 'over the top', especially given that frequently there's only one student graduating at a time. The smaller programs like Nail Technology or Facial Specialty usually last for 8 weeks or less. These students commonly want to get in and get out, for the most part. Their reward is a certificate of completion and signed licensing paperwork. However, for our cosmetology students, in lieu of a graduation ceremony, we hold a graduation party. We take photos, have refreshments and homemade cake (whatever kind they want) and present their completion certificate. The students love it!
@matthewmeeks : No thoughts----YOU NAILED IT!!
