Do I Need to Attend College Graduation?
Deciding whether to attend a college graduation ceremony is a personal choice that many prospective graduates grapple with. Here’s a comprehensive look at the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.
Why Not Attend?
Some argue that attending a graduation ceremony is not essential. It's true that for many graduates, the event may seem like a formality or largely irrelevant. This is especially true for those who are uncertain about their future or feel that the ceremony is more of a burden than a celebration.
Parental Expectations and Family Pressure: Many children attend solely to meet their parents' or family expectations. While a mother who has waited 21 years may view the occasion as a milestone, it’s vital to consider your own feelings and needs. If you lack a strong emotional response to the event, it’s understandable to choose not to participate.
Why Should I Attend?
On the other hand, there are compelling reasons to attend a graduation ceremony. Such an event is more than just a formal conclusion to four to five years of hard work; it symbolizes a life-changing milestone and a significant step in your personal and professional journey.
Significance of the Ceremony
Graduation is a once-in-a-lifetime milestone that marks the successful completion of your college education. It’s a significant event that celebrates your academic achievements and marks your transition into a new phase of life. The day is often filled with emotional speeches and ceremonial elements, which can be incredibly moving and thought-provoking.
Preserving Memories: Participating in the event allows you to capture precious memories that can last a lifetime. Photos, quotes from the commencement address, and the vibe of the ceremony all contribute to a unique and meaningful experience.
Fulfilling Family Expectations
Parents and family members often anticipate the day with great pride and excitement. For many moms, the event is a culmination of a long journey, and their happiness is often tied to seeing you walk across that stage. While it’s important to be authentic, meeting their expectations can bring a sense of fulfillment and connection.
Professional Benefits: Graduation ceremonies can also have professional benefits. They serve as a formal recognition of your degree, which can boost your resume and open doors to networking opportunities. Your colleagues, mentors, and even future employers are likely to attend the ceremony, providing you with a platform to make lasting connections.
Emotional and Academic Fulfillment
For those who have invested four or more years of hard work into their degree, attending the graduation ceremony can be emotionally rewarding. It signifies the culmination of a long academic journey and can provide a sense of accomplishment and closure.
Regret and Satisfaction: If you attend the ceremony, even if you’re not thrilled with the event, you won’t regret the decision for long. However, if you miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime event, the regret might linger for a while, even if not immediately. The experience of having participated can provide a sense of satisfaction and closure that you might miss by skipping the event.
Practical Considerations
Financial and logistical concerns are also important to consider. Attending graduation can require time off work, travel, and possibly additional expenses. However, these costs are typically outweighed by the emotional and professional benefits.
Time and Cost: While a week to a month off work might seem daunting, it’s often manageable and can be repaid with manifold benefits. Moreover, the financial investment in attending the ceremony can be seen as a small price to pay for the memories and opportunities it offers.
Conclusion
The decision to attend a graduation ceremony is ultimately personal, and it’s crucial to align your decision with your values, priorities, and feelings. If the event resonates with you and feels important, attending can be a worthwhile and fulfilling experience. Even if the ceremony isn’t your cup of tea, it can still be a moment of pride and a step forward on your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do I have to attend if I don't want to?
No, you don't have to attend the ceremony if you genuinely don't feel it aligns with your values or if you have better plans for the day.
Q2: What are the potential long-term regrets of not attending?
Missing out on the ceremony can lead to lingering feelings of regret, especially in the long term. It’s important to weigh these feelings against the practical and emotional benefits of attending.
Q3: Can attending graduation help in my career?
Yes, attending can offer networking opportunities and provide a formal recognition on your resume, which can have long-term benefits in your professional life.