As graduation day approaches, you are probably feeling a mix of emotions now—nervousness, excitement, relief, worry, eagerness, and, most likely, stress. Stressed about arriving at commencement on time, stressed about family being in attendance, stressed about what the future will now hold.
But you don’t have to feel that way. Your graduation day from Coahoma should be a celebration filled with joy, laughs, and tears - the good kind, of course. So, relax, take a deep breath, and remember these helpful reminders and seven tips to ensure your graduation day is everything you dreamed it would be.
HERE ARE A FEW REMINDERS FOR GRADUATES:
- CCC offers handicap accessibility/accommodation. To secure special assistance or services, contact Taneisha Turner, director of Employee Services/Coordinator for 504/ADA, Title IX Compliance Officer, at (662) 621-4853 or tyoung@coahomacc.edu.
- Graduates are expected to pay graduation the $65 graduation fee to the Business Office by April 28, 2023. Graduation fees must be paid whether or not you are participating in the commencement ceremony.
- Graduates must have a $0 balance to receive their diploma/ degree.
- Students must have all financial obligations and holds on their account cleared before picking up their graduation regalia (cap and gown).
- Students are recommended to attend and participate in graduation practice on May 10, 2023, at 9:00 am, at James Miller Stadium (Main Campus football field).
- Please arrive early, no later than 7:30 a.m. on graduation day.
- There will be no tickets given for admission to the graduation.
Attire:
- Men
- Black Slacks Pants
- White Dress Shirt/Dark Tie
- Black Dress Shoes
- Women
- Black Attire (dress, skirt/pants suit, or troussers)
- Recommended comfortable black pumps/flats
GRADUATION DAY TIPS:
- Be prepared.
Ensure that you have everything necessary to make the day go smoothly for you and your guests. Discuss start times with guests, understand the parking arrangements, and keep a schedule of the day’s events on hand. But most importantly, get a good night’s sleep and eat a full and healthy breakfast – with the chaos of the day, planning rest and food may prove elusive. Be hydrated!
- Dress appropriately
Consider everything you will be doing on commencement day; sitting for long periods of time, walking around the arena, going out to celebrate after with family, wearing a long robe and fitted cap – so keep your attire both nice and comfortable. Wear shoes that can accommodate all your activities, style hair simply to fit under your cap, and wear something with pockets – you don’t want to juggle a phone when you accept your diploma on stage. The ceremony is outdoors. So, consider the possibility of warm temperatures. Remember… hydrate!
- Understand this is your day
Don’t let anyone ruin your mood or your day – commencement is all about you! Let the others’ complaining slide, or tune out any traffic delays on your way to commencement. Remember, you did it, and this day is meant to celebrate your success.
- Congratulate yourself
Think about all you have accomplished while at Coahoma, your career and your life. Everything you have done so far has brought you to your #CCCTigerMoment, so acknowledge yourself on a job wonderfully done.
- Slow down
Let go of tomorrow, and all the previous coursework, family event scheduling, or project managing that needs to be done. All your responsibilities, obligations, and worries can wait. Simply enjoy the moment and appreciate the day you have been dreaming of for so long. You are #Coahoma23!
- Say thank you
While, yes, you achieved this milestone on your own, you did receive some support along the way. From parents, your cooperative spouse to the uplifting coworker, or the patient child to the understanding best friend, thank whoever helped you get this far. Relationships, like your college degree, should be treasured, so let them know how grateful you are for their love and support.
- Take plenty of photos
You’re running here, there, and back again, or everyone is tired, hungry, and ready to go. But no matter where you are, take the time to snap a few photos of your special day; it will be one of the most memorable of your life. Capture your big moment! We suggest a photo in front of the Pinnacle with the Mackie the Tiger statue!
However you choose to look at commencement – the end of a significant accomplishment or the beginning of a new future – enjoy the day. Appreciate your loved ones, your successes, and your brand-new degree or certificate. You earned it. Be proud because you triumphed. You did it.