Graduation

Graduation is a significant milestone in a person's educational journey. It marks the completion of a particular level of education, such as high school, undergraduate, or postgraduate studies. The term can also refer to the ceremony at which degrees or diplomas are conferred upon graduating students.

Overview

Graduation ceremonies, also known as commencement ceremonies, typically involve a procession of the academic staff and the graduating students, a speech by the leading authority of the educational institution, and the conferring of degrees. The students may also receive academic regalia, such as caps and gowns, which are worn during the ceremony.

History

The tradition of graduation ceremonies dates back to the 12th century, when the first universities were established in Europe. The wearing of academic regalia is believed to have originated at these early universities, where the scholars wore them for warmth in the unheated buildings.

Graduation in Different Countries

Graduation traditions vary widely between countries. In the United States, for example, graduation ceremonies often include a valedictorian speech, while in the United Kingdom, speeches are more commonly made by faculty members.

United States

In the United States, graduation ceremonies often include a valedictorian speech, which is given by the student with the highest academic ranking in the graduating class. The ceremony may also include a commencement speech, which is typically given by a notable figure invited by the institution.

United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, graduation ceremonies are typically more formal than in the United States. Speeches are more commonly made by faculty members, and the ceremony includes the presentation of each graduate to the chancellor or vice-chancellor of the university.

See Also

• Academic regalia
• Commencement speech
• Valedictorian

References

Graduation Resources
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