In 17 days, graduating seniors will walk across the stage in Moody Coliseum, shake President Royce Money’s hand, and begin a new life.

Until then, however, we find ourselves beleaguered with papers, projects, finals and the ever-looming task of securing employment. Amid our busy schedules, several steps must be made before we can graduate.

Unfortunately, not enough communication has occurred between the offices of the Registrar and Alumni and the senior class, leaving many who are graduating in the dark as to what they need to accomplish before May 13. With only one meeting, where seniors received a packet of information, and a flyer, little else has been communicated.

Here is a list of what you need to know to prepare for graduation:

Rehearsal

This year, students will be split into two rehearsals according to their major. On Friday, May 12, graduating seniors in the College of Biblical Studies and the College of Business Administration will rehearse at 3 p.m. in Moody. Seniors in the College of Arts and Sciences will rehearse at 4:15 p.m. You and your escort need to be at rehearsal, you should both bring your robe, your hood and mortar board (hat).

Announcements

Announcements can be ordered through The Campus Store, although it’s running pretty late to send them out. This information was only mentioned among other things on a sheet of paper seniors received in their graduation packet before spring break. Advertising on behalf of The Campus Store would have been helpful; fortunately, word of mouth has reached many seniors who were able to place their orders. Order forms can be found at the store, and be sure to allow five to seven business days to receive your announcements.

Graduation Celebration

In lieu of more traditional fanfare, the Centennial year brings with it a Graduation Celebration on a larger-than-average scale. From 5:30 to 7 p.m. Friday, seniors can enjoy a free festival and dinner, with the Grand Processional and Program beginning at 8 p.m. Incorporating all the events into one large extravaganza has its advantages and disadvantages.

The traditional receptions on the Mall after graduation have been axed and moved to Friday night, when seniors will have dinner in designated tents according to their major. Normally, the receptions on the Mall were paid for by the Registrar’s and Provost’s offices, but these responsibilities have been transferred to the Alumni Office.

While we see the necessity to incorporate time for students to mingle, the traditional reception after the actual ceremony on Saturday still should take place.

This is the time when we stand with our fellow classmates, those who now have the same degree as us and who we’ve spent time with the past four years. Our parents and professors meet, pictures are taken and goodbyes are said_-_all under the enthusiasm we gained from just graduating. The only way this scene can be recreated is if every senior attends the Friday night events and is able to find fellow majors. Taking pictures in the dark and not in full regalia is hardly an ideal way to commemorate graduation.

Having one huge celebration is great, but we’d like to keep our traditions as well. Keep the Mall receptions after the ceremonies on Saturday and end the Centennial class’ time at ACU the right way.

For more information on the Graduation Celebration, visit www.acu.edu/alumni/events/graduation_celebration.html. In addition, contact the Registrar’s Office at 674-2236 and the Alumni Office at 674-2622.