Student Information
Cap and Gowns
Apply to Graduate
You must apply to graduate by April 11, 2022 to guarantee that your name will be listed in the Commencement program. Students must apply to graduate by May 1, 2022 to receive tickets.
Rehearsal
A rehearsal for all participants will be held on Thursday, May 19, 2022. The rehearsal will begin at 2:00 p.m. and is expected to take approximately 1 hour. Please gather at the gates to Freeman Stadium
Assembly Area
Graduating students should assemble on the West side of the Otter Soccer Complex at least 2 hours before their ceremony starts. It may seem early, but the time goes very quickly. You should plan in advance if you live off campus and allow at least an extra 45 minutes for parking due to heavy traffic. Please arrive at the Soccer Otter Field dressed and ready to go, including cap, gown, tassel, hair, make-up and appropriate clothing complete. There will be bathrooms and mirrors available for last minute touch ups. Complimentary light snacks and beverages will be provided. You will receive directions from commencement officials. Please give them your attention for instructions. The Bookstore will be on-hand for last minute purchases, BUT DO NOT WAIT to buy your gown the morning of Commencement. Graduates will line up according to college and degree program. Faculty marshals will direct the procession to the commencement platform site located at the east end of the stadium field.
Ceremony Information
Candidates for degrees and credentials will be recognized individually by being called to the platform. Each name will be read from a card that candidates will find inside commencement programs located on their seats. Please fill out this card when you arrive at your seat and prior to crossing the stage.
Please have your hands free and clear while crossing the stage as there will be handshakes. Please remove sunglasses prior to crossing the stage. There are two photo opportunities on stage.
Honors
Other Information
Guests or family members are not permitted at the Otter Soccer Field. They should be heading to Freeman Stadium to get their seats, which are available on a first come, first serve basis. Gates open at 8:30 a.m. for the morning ceremony and 1:30 p.m. for the afternoon ceremonies.
Please make arrangements to meet your family and friends at a specific location after the ceremony is concluded and after all students, faculty and the platform party have left the seating area. We highly recommend that area be outside of Freeman Stadium.
Degree candidates should keep in mind this is an outdoor ceremony with no shade and you should be prepared both for heat and inclement weather.