How do you feel about graduations?

[Twisterdog]

I did the whole high school graduation thing. Everyone did, I guess it never occurred to any of us that skipping it was an option. It was ok, I didn't mind it. It's kind of fun with all your friends.

I also did the whole college graduation thing. My parents came 1400 miles to watch me graduate. I really couldn't have cared less by then and would have gladly skipped it. But, seeing as I was the first person in my family to ever graduate from college, they were very excited and proud. Also, they helped pay for my degree, so I figured I owed it to them, if it's what they wanted. It was boring and a hassle, and if it wasn't for my parent I wouldn't have attended.

[Cataholic]

If he doesn't want to walk, then he doesn't walk. Not sure it is that big of a deal, and yee-haw! no boring speeches.

BUT, I do feel something should be done to celebrate the event. An informal gathering, a picnic, whatever. Something that sets the day apart from others.

Like others, I, too, got my degrees that very day. If you didn't attend, it was mailed. I don't think I would be inclined to spend $100 just to participate, he he he...those schools got enough of my money. (Though, I did attend both my BA and JD ceremonies). Prolly wouldn't do it today. Good thing I am not planning on any more learnin'!

As for making him tell the in-laws...not sure I follow. Why not, when YOU are asked, say, "He has decided not to participate...not a huge deal to us"...as long as it isn't. Why pit the in-laws against your son? (WE want him to do it, he won't do it...so, go ask him why he won't do it...).

[catnapper]

Glad to see its not such a big deal to others too

My son isn't one to revel in the limelight. He puts more importance on his running accomplishments than his educational ones. He plans on going to get his Masters, so he thinks its silly to mark graduating one school to move on to another. I understand his feelings completely.

Huuby and I already planned on throwing a nice family party to celebrate his graduation.... we feel that is better than sitting on uncomfortable bleachers, surrounded by crowds of people, to catch an itty bitty glimpse of him as he walks up on stage to collect his degree. Why is it better? Because we're able to spend time with him, talk to him about his future plans, and the whole family can do the same. On graduation day, its all hurry up and wait. Then stand around and wait some more. We might be lucky to get ten minutes' worth of photos. If thats all my inlaws want, we can borrow a gown and pose for photos!

[Laura's Babies]

At the school I worked at, the diploma's were held onto until the gowns/robe's were turned back in... that was the reason for that. Reckon the graduates weren't to swift on turning the gowns back in.

[k9krazee]

I'll be the first one to graduate from college on my Mom's side, so to her it's a big deal and wants me to walk. My graduation will only cost $30 for the cap/gown/tassel and will only last an hour and a half, so it's not a big deal to walk. If it was $100 I probably wouldn't want to do it and would enjoy a dinner or picnic with family instead.

We receive our diplomas in the mail 2-4 weeks after the ceremony.

[Cataholic]

Huuby and I already planned on throwing a nice family party to celebrate his graduation.... we feel that is better than sitting on uncomfortable bleachers, surrounded by crowds of people, to catch an itty bitty glimpse of him as he walks up on stage to collect his degree. Why is it better? Because we're able to spend time with him, talk to him about his future plans, and the whole family can do the same. On graduation day, its all hurry up and wait. Then stand around and wait some more. We might be lucky to get ten minutes' worth of photos. If thats all my inlaws want, we can borrow a gown and pose for photos!

THAT sounds like a plan! Want me to look and see if I still have my JD gown??? LOLOL...

[king2005]

Huuby and I already planned on throwing a nice family party to celebrate his graduation.... we feel that is better than sitting on uncomfortable bleachers, surrounded by crowds of people, to catch an itty bitty glimpse of him as he walks up on stage to collect his degree. Why is it better? Because we're able to spend time with him, talk to him about his future plans, and the whole family can do the same. On graduation day, its all hurry up and wait. Then stand around and wait some more. We might be lucky to get ten minutes' worth of photos. If thats all my inlaws want, we can borrow a gown and pose for photos!

Now that is a plan
When I accomplish something I love hooking up with friends & going out for dinner or drinks at a pub (well, I'll drink pop & they'll do all the drinking LOL). But to me, thats far more fun.. If there are no friends around, then I go to McDonalds for a double cheese burger combo, & share my fries with Digi & Cam. Thats what I did when I received my Security certificate in Jan & again last week when I got my Security Licence. I might get to do it today (maybe tomorrow) if I get hired from the job interview I'm leaving for (right now). WOOT!

[emily_the_spoiled]

I think I still have my hood from my last university graduation (that I did not attend). So he could look "real official" if he wants a little encouragement for the next degree!