Graduation season is just around the corner, marking a time to celebrate years of dedication, late-night study sessions, and countless assignments. It’s a proud moment for you and your loved ones, but it can also feel a bit overwhelming with so much to prepare. Whether it’s confirming your attendance, arranging guest tickets, or deciding what to wear, a little preparation can make all the difference. Graduation is more than a ceremony; it’s a milestone worth celebrating.
Confirm Your Attendance
The first step is to confirm your attendance. When you get the invitation, RSVP as soon as possible. This helps your university plan the event. They need to know how many people are coming.
If you want to bring family or friends, check how many tickets you can get. Some universities allow extra tickets. Make sure to book them before the deadline. Missing this step could mean missing your ceremony, so don’t delay!
Secure Your Graduation Attire
Your graduation gown, cap, and hood are very important. You can rent them from the university’s recommended supplier. Book your attire early to avoid late fees. Make sure you choose the right size for your gown and cap.
Underneath your gown, wear something comfortable and stylish. Check if your university has a dress code. Choose clothes that match the colours of your graduation gown. This will make your photos look great.
Don’t forget about your shoes! Pick a pair that is comfortable for walking and standing. Avoid wearing brand-new shoes. They might hurt your feet.

Plan Your Day in Advance
Planning your day ahead of time is very important. Arrive at the venue at least two hours before the ceremony. This gives you enough time to collect your gown and get ready.
Make sure you know the schedule for your ceremony. Find out when to robe up and line up for the procession. Being prepared will help you stay calm.
What to Bring on the Day
Pack a small bag with all the essentials. Bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated. Graduation happens in summer, so it might be hot.
Carry a pair of spare shoes. You’ll be walking a lot, and comfortable shoes can make a big difference. Pack safety pins, hair pins, and a mirror. These will help you keep your gown in place and look your best.
Don’t forget your e-tickets! You’ll need them to enter the ceremony. If you booked extra tickets for guests, bring those too.
Capture the Moment
Graduation is a special day, so make sure to capture the memories. Many universities offer professional photography services. You can book these in advance. If you prefer, ask a family member or friend to take photos.
Plan to take photos after the ceremony. This way, you won’t feel rushed. If you’re sharing your day on social media, think of fun captions and hashtags. You could even make a short video to remember the day.
Celebrate After the Ceremony
After the ceremony, it’s time to celebrate! Book a restaurant in advance for a special meal with your family and friends. Popular places in Manchester include The Ivy Spinningfields, 20 Stories, and The Alchemist MediaCityUK. These spots are perfect for a graduation dinner.
If you want to keep the party going, plan a graduation party with your friends. Make sure to organise everything early. Restaurants and venues get very busy on graduation day.
Stay Calm and Enjoy the Moment
It’s normal to feel nervous on graduation day. But remember, this day is all about celebrating you. Everyone is there to cheer you on.
Take a moment to reflect on your journey. Think about all the hard work that brought you here. Thank your family, friends, and teachers for their support.
Don’t stress about small things. Focus on enjoying the ceremony and the celebrations. This is your big day, so make the most of it!

Think Beyond Graduation
Graduation is not the end. It’s the start of a new chapter. Start thinking about your next steps. Look for job opportunities or internships. Use your university’s career services to get help.
Take some time to relax, too. Plan a holiday or spend time with your loved ones. Stay in touch with your university friends. They’ve shared this journey with you, and those friendships are special.
Most importantly, enjoy every second of your big day. You’ve worked hard to get here, and you deserve to celebrate. Follow this guide, and you’ll be ready to make the most of your graduation day!
Thank you for reading, click the link to read more of our Advice Articles
Inside Success presents to you our digital platform, created to inform, inspire and empower 16-35s. Through our articles, we aim to bring bold ideas, fresh voices and real conservations to life. From mental health advice, to career information, and fashion tips to social issue debates, Inside Success is proud to have created a platform that has something to cater to everyone.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.