TIPS FOR A GREAT COMMENCEMENT

Attention graduates. You’ve done the work. Now it’s time to celebrate, and since you have a lot on your plate, we at Cougar News thought it would be good to give you a few tips to make the most of your commencement ceremony.

Wake up to a nice, hearty breakfast
(or a good lunch if you’re sleeping in)
Sure, the ceremony isn’t until 7 p.m., but you don’t want to pass out while crossing the stage. The Internet wants you to, but it doesn’t have your best interests at heart. Make time to eat well early and get a snack if you are hungry beforehand. You know what works best to give you the energy to get through the day.

A graduate puts her hands in the air like she just don't care ... or may be waving to a friend.
A graduate waves her hands in the air like she just don’t care … or may be signalling a friend.

Wear comfortable clothes
This is your big day, so wear what you want under your cap and gown. Whether it is a dress, long-sleeve shirt and tie, or an “I’m with Stupid” t-shirt and jeans, just make sure you are comfortable. The ceremony can take a while and you’ll want to be comfy while you are waiting for your big moment.

Take lots of photos
This is important. You are going to want a lot of photos. Crowd shots. Friend shots. Random weirdness in the event center shots. Selfies. My god the selfies. Stock up on all the memories you can. And be sure to get photographic proof that you are a graduate, just in case someone asks. Remember, “Pics or it didn’t happen.”

Make an effort to put down the phone
I know this is a hard one, but once the ceremony starts, put down your cell phone and resist the urge to play Angry Birds until the entire ceremony is over. You don’t want to miss your friends’ big moments because you are looking at a funny cat gif. Besides, how would you feel if you look out from the stage onto a sea of downturned faces?

Listen to the speeches
Sure, you just spent a couple of years listening to lectures en route to earning your degree and you probably want to just zone out. Commencement should be an experience, not just another line to be waited in. You’re not camping out for Batman vs. Superman tickets here. The ceremony is a recognition of your accomplishment and getting a little advice from people who have accomplished even more can’t hurt.

Enjoy your newfound graduate status responsibly
You’ve heard it before, but it bears repeating. Big nights like commencement usually mean big celebrations afterward. Nothing ruins a party like red and blue lights in a rearview mirror. Request an Uber. Ride with a sober friend. Celebrate at your own house. Or don’t drink at all. Your future self will thank you.

If you haven’t already, sign up for the alumni association
The Pride, Collin College’s alumni association is a great place to keep up with your fellow graduates and to learn the great things Collin College is up to. If you haven’t already, sign up today at https://www.collin.edu/foundation/alumni/ .

For more great tips on Collin College’s commencement ceremony, including information on the Allen Event Center, check out the graduation FAQ at https://www.collin.edu/gettingstarted/admissions/Frequently_Asked_Questions_About_Graduation.pdf