Ah, the graduation hood – that mysterious accessory that often leaves graduates scratching their heads (pun intended) on how to wear it correctly. But fear not, because I’m here to guide you through the process and ensure you look your best on your big day!
First things first, let’s talk about what exactly a graduation hood is. The graduation hood is a traditional academic garment worn by graduates during commencement ceremonies. It’s typically worn over the gown and is meant to represent the graduate’s academic achievements, field of study, and the institution they’re graduating from.
Now, let’s get down to business and learn how to wear a graduation hood like a pro:
Positioning: Start by draping the hood over your shoulders with the velvet trim facing outward and the pointed end hanging down your back. The hood should be centered on your back, with the velvet trim visible around your neck.
Secure the Hood: Next, secure the hood in place by attaching it to the gown. Most graduation gowns have a small loop or button near the neckline specifically designed for this purpose. Simply loop the hood around the button or through the loop to keep it in place.
Adjust the Length: The length of the hood should vary depending on your level of education. For bachelor’s degree recipients, the hood should hang down to the middle of your back. For master’s degree recipients, it should hang slightly longer, reaching the bottom of your gown. And for doctoral degree recipients, the hood should be the longest, extending beyond the gown.
Keep it Straight: Make sure the hood lies flat and straight against your back. You may need to adjust it slightly to ensure it hangs evenly and doesn’t bunch up or twist.
Final Touches: Once you’ve got the hood positioned correctly, take a moment to adjust your gown and cap to ensure everything looks neat and tidy. Straighten your cap and adjust the tassel to the appropriate side (usually the right side for undergraduates and the left side for graduates).
And there you have it – you’re now ready to rock your graduation hood with confidence and style!
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What do the colors on the graduation hood represent?
The colors on the graduation hood represent the graduate’s academic discipline or field of study. Each color corresponds to a specific academic discipline, and the velvet trim indicates the degree level.
2. Can I wear the graduation hood without the gown?
Traditionally, the graduation hood is worn over the gown during commencement ceremonies. However, some graduates choose to wear the hood without the gown for photo opportunities or special occasions.
3. How do I store my graduation hood to keep it in good condition?
To keep your graduation hood in good condition, store it flat or hang it on a sturdy hanger with the hood draped over the top. Avoid folding or crumpling the hood, as this can cause wrinkles and creases.
4. Do I need to wear anything under the graduation hood?
Typically, graduates wear formal attire such as a collared shirt, tie, or dress under the graduation gown and hood. However, the specific dress code may vary depending on the institution and ceremony guidelines.
5. Can I customize my graduation hood?
While some institutions may have strict guidelines regarding the design and color of graduation hoods, others may allow for customization. Check with your school or university to see if customization options are available and what guidelines must be followed.
