The Significance of Holding a Diploma: More Than Just a Piece of Paper
Graduation ceremonies are a time of celebration, marking the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. While the commencement ceremony itself is a formal event filled with traditions and symbolism, the act of receiving and holding a diploma represents something far more profound. It signifies not only the completion of academic requirements but also the beginning of a new chapter filled with possibilities.
Understanding Graduation and Commencement
It's important to distinguish between "graduation" and "commencement." Commencement is the ceremony, a formal gathering celebrating students who have successfully completed their degree requirements. It's an event filled with pomp and circumstance, robes, sashes, cords, speeches, marches, music, and recognition of achievements. However, the actual diploma is typically not handed out at the ceremony itself. Instead, graduates usually receive a diploma cover or case and receive the official diploma later, once all grades and credentials are finalized. Graduation, on the other hand, refers to the academic term in which a student officially and successfully completes all degree requirements.
A Historical Perspective
The ceremony for graduating students dates back to the first universities in Europe around the 12th century. Latin was the language of scholars at the time, and many Latin phrases and terms are still used today. The term "university" (universitas) referred to a guild of masters with licenses to teach. The Latin term "degree" and "graduate" come from "gradus," meaning "step." The first step was a bachelor's degree, the second a master's, and the third a doctorate. Upon completing a doctorate, the graduating student gained admission to the universitas and a "license to teach." These customs continue today with candidates wearing gowns, hoods, and hats derived from the daily dress of university staff in the Middle Ages, similar to the attire worn by medieval clergy. Over the years, academic regalia has evolved, with colors representing different academic disciplines. For instance, bachelor's degree recipients wear gowns with pointed sleeves, while master's degree recipients wear gowns with oblong sleeves. Black gowns are generally recommended, with distinctions in trim and velvet for doctoral degrees.
The Symbolism of the Ceremony
The graduation ceremony is rich in symbolism. A University Mace, bearing distinctive shields and coats of arms, symbolizes the authority and independence of the university. It is carried in front of the academic procession, a traditional march of university dignitaries in academic dress. Each college is presented to the graduate by these dignitaries. This ceremony provides insights into the significance of the event for graduates, parents, alumni, and guests.
The Diploma: A Testament to Hard Work and Dedication
When graduates walk across the stage to accept their degrees, they are celebrating a significant life milestone. Graduation is a product of hard work, dedication, and commitment to studies. It represents a promise of a future and the prospect of a great career or further studies. It is an accomplishment to be proud of, especially considering that only a fraction of college students earn their degrees within four to six years.
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The Rehearsal: Preparing for the Big Moment
To ensure a smooth and memorable graduation ceremony, a rehearsal is highly recommended. Rehearsals help students, the graduation committee, administration, teachers, and staff prepare for the event. Students often experience a mix of excitement, nervousness, and emotion, and a rehearsal can help calm these feelings. The rehearsal should ideally take place at the graduation venue, allowing students to become familiar with the layout and their assigned seats. Key aspects to rehearse include walking the stage, receiving certificates, and exiting correctly. Students should be taught which hand to use when receiving the diploma and shaking hands. Calming exercises can also help students manage any anxiety about tripping or making mistakes. For schools with a song or anthem, rehearsing its performance can create a lasting memory for the students.
Protecting and Displaying Your Diploma
Diplomas are hard-earned documents representing significant achievements. They are often presented in graduation diploma covers, such as diploma jackets, folders, or padded covers, customized with the school's official seal and colors. While these covers look great in photos, they are not intended for long-term storage. Many institutions ship the actual diploma several weeks after graduation, pending completion of all requirements.
For long-term protection and display, a museum-grade college diploma frame is recommended. Diploma frames offer superior protection compared to diploma covers, which can damage the diploma over time. The paper used for diplomas requires special care to prevent fading and discoloration. High-quality diploma frames use UV-protective glass and conservation-grade matting to preserve the diploma's condition. Unlike diploma covers, which are often made of acidic materials, diploma frames provide a safe and archival-quality environment for your degree. A custom diploma frame with your school's licensed seal is a better long-term choice for showcasing your achievement.
The Deeper Meaning of Open Hands
Beyond the academic achievement, graduation can also be viewed as a symbolic moment for embracing a life of open hands. As Headmaster Castello noted in his address to the class of 2019, hands reveal character and express what's in the heart and mind. While closing our hands is instinctive, learning to live with open hands is a conscious choice. Living with open hands means surrendering control, trusting in a higher power, and extending mercy, grace, and forgiveness to others. It means embracing vulnerability, humility, and empathy. It means seeking connection, engaging with different ideas, and being willing to let go of things we want to hold onto tightly. Ultimately, living with open hands allows us to love our neighbors and contribute to the world in a meaningful way.
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