Grad Fair to be held March 3-5, 2015
Though it’s been some years since I was enrolled at the University of Mississippi and anticipating May graduation, I vividly remember the experience. The spring semester got off to a slow start in January. As the weeks passed, the pace (and problems) seemed to increase.
For those who may find themselves experiencing pre-graduation anxiety, I offer the following checklist:
- Verify your degree requirements. This is without question the most important item on the list. Don’t assume (as I did) that your academic adviser’s approval of your courses selected each term guarantees that you’ve taken all the classes/hours necessary to receive your degree. It’s your responsibility to see that you’ve met all specified requirements.
- Pay all debts owed. If you have outstanding parking violations, owe lab equipment usage or other fees which appear as “holds” in the Bursar’s Office, make arrangements and pay the university exactly what they tell you is due. You don’t want your academic achievement overshadowed by your financial technicalities.
- Order and send invitations early. Odds are you aren’t the only member of your extended family graduating in May. If you want dibs on the best gifts, then hit your relatives up before the competition gets stiff. Of course, be sure to send thank-you notes afterward.
- Submit resumes and job applications well before May. Hopefully, you’ve done enough legwork (i.e., internships, co-ops, etc.) to have graduate school and/or job offers waiting for your response. However, if you don’t have a clue what your plans are after commencement, don’t panic. You’re late, but not too late. Begin knocking on doors, making phone calls, getting letters of recommendation. Sooner or later, the right opportunity will come along. It always does.
- Miscellaneous but Essential for the Big Day: Friends. Photographer/videographer. Cap, gown and honor cords (if appropriate). A post-commencement celebration.
Well, that should about do it! Take care of these five things, have a wonderful last semester and congratulations!