Grown-ish: Preparing for Graduation
Getting everything squared away before you walk across the stage is important and crucial for an easy transition for life off the yard

I need a guidebook to life
As the start of a new semester begins, many of you are preparing for your next big milestone: Graduation. Getting everything squared away before you walk across the stage is important and crucial for an easy transition for life off the yard. Making post-grad plans, purchasing regalia, and scheduling your celebratory photoshoots are only a few things you should consider when preparing for your big day. Here are a few tips to help guide your journey to alumni status.
Make Sure You Are Financially Clear
Even though this should be a no brainer, you NEED to make sure all of your financial issues are squared away with your school. Most schools won’t even let you walk the stage if you owe a balance. It’s important to always check your status, especially if your school has a tendency to add or drop things at the last minute.
Send In Final Applications/Interview Prep
This last semester of your academic journey may be one your most important! While you can use this period as a cushion to relax before real life hits, you should use this time to make any last minute tweaks on your resumes and job applications. Many companies start looking for entry level employees and interns for the summer around this time, so it’s important to have everything ready to send to hiring managers, just in case the deadline window is small! Take a trip to your career center for extra help if you need it. It’s also important to follow up with past employers and maintain that relationship! You never know if they are looking for new hires by the time you graduate.
Order Your Regalia Early
Nothing hurts more than being left out. To avoid this happening on your big day, order your graduation regalia early. Between your cap and gown, announcements, and extra diploma decor, it’s easy for things to be delayed the closer you get to graduation day. Some schools may also have items on hand at the bookstore, so you don’t have to wait for it to arrive. Regardless, you should want to get it done early and not take that chance – especially if you’re taking professional graduation pictures!
Attend Your Graduation Events
I know you might be busy with planning, last minute assignments, or just having fun outside, but make sure to go to a few of your grad events on campus! It’s a great opportunity to soak up the last few moments of being on campus. Senior week activities, early career workshops, and networking events are all events you might see being held by your school for you to enjoy.
Plan Out Your Guest List
While some schools are different, there are many that have a cap on the amount of people you can invite to the ceremony. If this is your case, make sure to keep track of everyone you are inviting. Narrowing down your list might be very challenging, so try not to start too late to give your family time to make travel arrangements. The LAST thing you want are family members flying out to celebrate your accomplishments with no guaranteed seat or way in. Also, don’t be afraid to reach out to others that may not use all of their tickets!
Schedule Your Graduation Photoshoot(s)
Last but not least, don’t forget to schedule your photoshoot! Taking pictures in your school gear in front of your favorite school landmarks is the perfect way to honor your HBCU’s legacy. Some of you may even do a tribute to your hometown and your family. Either way, the sooner you book the better. Slots tend to fill up quickly, and you don’t want anything to look or feel rushed. Plan it out and be creative!
As your time on the yard comes to an end, don’t forget to take a moment to soak in this memorable milestone. It takes drive, determination, and resilience to get a degree, so make sure to celebrate yourself for achieving something that many haven’t had the opportunity to do. Graduation is not the end; it marks the beginning of a new chapter filled with endless opportunities. Whether you’re furthering your education, entering the workforce, or taking time to achieve personal goals, the experience at your HBCU has equipped you with the tools and skills to thrive in any environment. So go be great, and don’t forget to carry that HBCU pride wherever you go.