Understanding the Graduation Tassel: A Comprehensive Guide

As graduation day approaches, many soon-to-be graduates find themselves sorting through a multitude of details. Among graduation party ideas, announcements, invitations, and attire considerations, understanding the proper way to wear graduation regalia, particularly the cap and tassel, often emerges as a point of confusion. This article aims to clarify the tradition surrounding the graduation tassel, including its placement and significance.

Preparing for Graduation Day

Before delving into the specifics of tassel etiquette, it’s essential to ensure that all aspects of graduation attire are in order. This includes ordering the cap and gown and understanding how each piece should be worn.

The Graduation Cap (Mortarboard)

The graduation cap, formally known as the mortarboard, is designed to be worn flat on the head, parallel to the ground. To ensure a comfortable and correct fit, consider the following steps:

Practice Wearing the Cap: Familiarize yourself with the cap's fit and feel by wearing it before the ceremony.
Style Hair Accordingly: Adjust your hairstyle to accommodate the cap. For women, certain hairstyles work better with the cap than others.
Correct Placement: Position the cap with the pointed tip facing forward and the elastic band at the back. The cap should sit about an inch above the eyebrows and should not be tilted.
Secure the Cap: Use hairpins or other methods to secure the cap, preventing it from falling off during the ceremony.

Styling Considerations

Graduation photos capture a significant milestone, making it essential to look presentable. Here are some styling tips for graduates:

For Men: Style hair as usual or use hair products for a more secure fit under the cap.
For Women with Short Hair: Consider using sculpting spray or a sweeping bang look.
For Women with Mid-Length Hair: Options include tight curls, sleek straight hair, or a side braid.
For Women with Long Hair: Loose curls or beachy waves are popular choices.

The Significance of the Graduation Tassel

The tassel is a decorative cord with fringe that hangs from the top of the mortarboard. It has become a symbol of academic achievement, with its placement differing based on the degree earned and the institution's traditions.

Read also: Undergraduate Programs at UNC

Historical Context

The tradition of using tassels at graduation ceremonies has deep roots in the history of academic regalia, tracing back to medieval Europe. Scholars in medieval universities wore clerical robes symbolizing their academic status and dedication. Over time, this attire evolved into the formalized academic dress we recognize today, including the mortarboard cap. The addition of the tassel connects to early scholars who adorned their caps with fabric or string to signify their scholarly achievements.

Tassel Placement: A Symbolic Transition

In contemporary graduation ceremonies, the tassel marks the transition from candidate to graduate. Typically, this is signified by moving the tassel from the right side of the cap to the left after the degree is conferred. The color of the tassel often represents the graduate's field of study.

Tassel Placement Guidelines

The side on which the tassel is worn depends on the graduate's level of education and the specific traditions of the school.

High School and Undergraduate Degrees

For high school and undergraduate ceremonies, the tassel typically starts on the right side of the cap. During the ceremony, graduates will be instructed to move the tassel to the left side. This shift symbolizes the earning of a degree and the transition from student to graduate.

Master's and Doctoral Degrees

For those earning master’s or doctoral degrees, the tassel starts on the left side and remains there throughout the ceremony. This position reflects their prior academic achievements and the advanced nature of their degree. Graduate students already hold a bachelor's degree, so the act of moving the tassel is not necessary.

Specific Instructions During the Ceremony

The exact moment when graduates move their tassels can vary. In some schools, the tassel is moved after each graduate shakes hands with the person granting the diploma. In others, a principal or dean announces when the class has graduated and instructs everyone to move their tassels simultaneously.

Additional Considerations for Graduation Attire

Beyond the cap and tassel, several other aspects of graduation attire warrant consideration.

Graduation Stoles

A graduation stole is a decorative sash worn over the graduation gown. Graduates may wear stoles to represent their academic achievements, affiliations, or identity. The Stole of Gratitude, traditionally gold, is a common example.

Honor Cords

Graduation honor cords signify academic honors or membership in special organizations. These cords are placed around the neck, over the graduation stole, with the ends hanging evenly.

Post-Graduate Hoods

Candidates getting master's or doctorate degrees often receive a hood symbolizing their academic field. The hood is placed over the head with the velvet side facing outward and secured to the gown with a loop.

Read also: Boost Your Financial IQ

What to Wear Under the Gown

Comfort and style are essential when choosing what to wear under the graduation gown. Business casual attire is generally recommended, keeping in mind that the shirt collar or dress top will be visible. Comfortable shoes are crucial, as graduates may be walking on various surfaces. It’s also important to consider the weather and wear something suitable for post-ceremony celebrations.

Decorating the Cap (Mortarboard)

Personalization of the graduation cap is a popular trend. Students often decorate their caps to reflect their personality, achievements, or future plans. However, it’s important to use good judgment and avoid profanity, offensive images, or anything that obstructs the visibility of others.

Preserving Graduation Memories

After the graduation ceremony, the tassel often becomes a cherished memento. Instead of storing it away, consider displaying it in a frame with a graduation photo or using it as a decorative item.

Graduation Tassel FAQs

Q: Can the tassel color vary by school?

A: Yes, tassel colors can represent the school's colors or the graduate's field of study.

Q: Is it common to decorate graduation caps?

A: Yes, many students personalize their caps with decorations, though some schools have guidelines on how to do this appropriately.

Q: Are there any other items worn with graduation attire?

A: Graduates may also wear stoles (sashes), cords, or medallions to signify honors, club memberships, or other achievements.

Q: Do international students wear different attire?

A: International students often wear stoles representing their home country.

Q: Can family members participate in any graduation traditions?

A: Family members typically observe and celebrate the traditions but usually do not actively participate in the ceremonies.

Q: What happens if a graduate cannot attend the ceremony?

A: Most schools offer options to participate virtually or to have the diploma sent directly to the graduate.

Q: Are there rehearsals for graduation ceremonies?

A: Yes, many schools hold rehearsals to ensure that graduates are familiar with the ceremonies proceedings.

Q: What should guests wear to a graduation?

A: Guests typically dress formally or in business casual attire, respecting the ceremony's significance.

Q: How early should guests arrive at the ceremony?

A: It's recommended to arrive at least 30-60 minutes early to secure seating and avoid disruptions.

Q: Can graduates keep their caps and gowns?

A: In most cases, graduates purchase and keep their regalia, although some schools offer rental options.

tags: #undergraduate #graduation #tassel #side #meaning