Do You Get a Graduation Ceremony for Online School?
For most college graduates, online graduates included, the commencement ceremony represents the pinnacle of their achievement. It's the proud moment when friends and family gather round and offer congratulations for all the hard work it took to realize this crowning academic accomplishment.
There's just something about it -- the solemn procession, the traditional music, the sea of caps and gowns, the best wishes from administration, faculty and staff -- all go to boosting up the graduate in a way that says, "You've done it! Now you are ready to take your place in the world after earning your degree."
If I take Online Classes, Will I Be able to go to my Graduation Ceremony?
Some students choose to forgo a graduation ceremony; they are not into the pomp and circumstance, or perhaps are just ready to get on in the working world and don't have time for the ceremony or the expense of renting a gown, or perhaps they are moving on and won't be around. However, most colleges and universities make it a point to provide a graduation ceremony for those who choose to participate.
It may surprise you to learn that even some non-traditional colleges and universities, such as online schools, honor their students with a graduation ceremony. For instance, ECPI University of Virginia Beach, VA, has a massive graduation ceremony in Virginia Beach, to which all online graduates are invited to participate. There is also an online graduate reception prior to the ceremony so that students may meet in-person with their classmates and teachers.
Are You Worried About Missing Graduation?
Online students in the past have typically not expected their colleges or universities to host a graduation ceremony. Students currently considering enrollment in an online school may assume that's still par for the course.
After all, many students will obviously live far away from the school's parent campus -- in other states, or even in other countries. Even if the online school does host commencement activities, it just may not be possible for these faraway students to attend graduation ceremonies, due to the expense and inconvenience of travel.
Certainly, if at all possible, it's of great psychological benefit to participate in commencement ceremonies. You should feel an uplifting sense of camaraderie in the presence of your fellow graduates, even if you were not in physical attendance at the school.
Benefits of Attending a Commencement Ceremony
Just seeing others like yourself in real time, those who like you have labored online and perhaps have felt an occasional sense of disconnectedness from the academic process, can find solid affirmation of their experience in the commencement activities. It's a great opportunity to meet professors and administrative officers, as well as to introduce yourself to your fellow students, with whom you may have messaged and collaborated during your studies.
You may also find it fun to participate in any parties planned to honor the graduates, where again, you'll have a chance to meet your classmates and perhaps, form new friendships, or discuss plans for jobs, or furthering your education.
But the greatest thing about graduation day undoubtedly is climbing the stage to receive your diploma. You will find it's an experience like no other to hear your name called out and then to walk across the stage, take your diploma, and shake hands with the University President.
Certainly, you will be a graduate whether you are in the ceremony or not, but receiving the diploma in person really helps to affirm the experience in your psyche: It's official. You've earned your college diploma.
Are you interested in earning a degree online but don't want to miss the graduation ceremony? ECPI University allows you the best of both worlds: education on your terms and a ceremony to celebrate your accomplishment. For more information about our programs in fields such as business, criminal justice, technology, and health science, connect with a friendly admissions advisor today.
It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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