By Michelle Lara
Before you head to commencement, here a few do's and don'ts for the special day!
DO: Dress Appropriately
Maybe leave the salmon shorts and “The Office”-inspired Halloween costume at home (yes, even the three-hole-punch, Jim). Chances are, you’re going to take all types of pictures with your family and friends and might have a graduation party or dinner to attend afterward. Whether you’re going business casual or reaching for the springy floral dress to wear under the robe, make sure to keep it comfortable yet appropriate for the occasion!{shortcode-a6372f724528fdadd0ed27f62f0a8d0d949543ab}
DON’T: Pregame the event
No, this isn’t Harvard-Yale, where you can take a drink every time the crowd cheers. You’ll probably want to remember your last day as a Harvard student as clearly as possible, and alcohol isn’t the best way to do that. Plus, accidentally tripping as you get your diploma isn’t a cute look.
DO: Eat Beforehand and Bring Gum
The ceremony is long, and no one’s interested in hearing your stomach grumble for more than three hours. Eat a fulfilling meal beforehand! It’s also going to be hot and your mouth’s going to get dry. Carrying a few pieces of mint gum or a box of tic-tacs in your pocket isn’t a bad idea. Plus, if your friend’s breath smells a little off, you won’t have to sit there in agony for too long.
DON’T: Fall Asleep During Commencement Exercises
Spoiler alert: Commencement speeches are long. If you thought Convocation was bad, you’re in for a ride. Harvard commencement speeches, however, are known for being really notable, if J.K. Rowling and Oprah Winfrey’s speeches are any indication. With Germany’s Chancellor Angela Merkel speaking this year, this year’s speeches are definitely worth your attention. If you’re really struggling, just stare at one of the deans trapped on the stage and try to guess how many times they blink per minute.{shortcode-e004b2d845da2d0afb4ccfb44da09aed9fe087d4}
DO: Appreciate This Last Time with Your Classmates
Practically everyone in your grade — from your freshman-year roommates to the new friends you made during senior week — will be around to celebrate during this one final event. It’s like a giant meal at Annenberg, except everyone is sitting at the same table, and there’s no food. The classmates around you are still as unique and amazing as they were the first day you met them; enjoy every moment of it while you can.
Want more content like this? Subscribe to Harvard Today, Flyby’s daily newsletter with campus events, free food, Crimson content, the daily menu, and more!
Click here to read more of the Flyby Commencement Issue 2019!
