10 Things Every SCC Grad Should Know Before Commencement

10 Things Every SCC Grad Should Know Before Commencement

You did it. After late nights, early mornings, and a whole lot of figuring things out, you're almost at the finish line. Before you cross that stage, here's everything you need to know to make sure the big day goes smoothly.

1. Submit your graduation application, even if you're not walking.

This is the step a lot of students skip, and it really matters. You need to submit a graduation application through Hawknet so the Registrar can evaluate your record and officially award your degree. It only takes a few minutes.

2. Know your ceremony date and location.

Put the graduation ceremony dates in your calendar now and send the details to your people so everyone shows up at the right place.

3. Check the bag policy before you pack.

West Burlington grads and their guests, this one is for you. Burlington Riverfront Entertainment has a clear bag policy in place for all events at that venue, including SCC graduation. Only approved bags are allowed. You can learn more about this policy at the BRE website.

4. Pick up your cap and gown.

Your regalia is free. Starting April 22, graduates can pick up their cap, gown, and tassel, Keokuk graduates will go to the Fred Karre Memorial Library. West Burlington graduates can pick up theirs at the Blackhawk Bookstore. Don't wait until the last minute on this one.

5. Show up for practice if you can.

Graduation practice is held at 10 AM the morning of the ceremony at the graduation location. It's not required, but it's strongly encouraged, especially if your name is often mispronounced. Your family will thank you when they hear it said correctly from the stage.

6. Your diploma won't be handed to you on stage.

That's totally normal. Spring graduates who complete their program in May will have their diploma mailed in June. So enjoy the moment without worrying about holding onto an envelope all night. It's on its way.

7. Tell your people to tune in online.

Both ceremonies will be livestreamed on SCC's Facebook page. Family members who can't make the trip, friends cheering you on from a distance, anyone who wants to watch can be there virtually. Share that link ahead of time so nobody misses it.

8. Check if you're a Legacy Alumni.

If you have family members who attended SCC or its predecessor schools like Burlington Community College or Keokuk Community College, you and your family qualify as Legacy Alumni. That means a free Legacy Alumni graduate lapel pin for you and one for each family member who paved the way. It's a small thing, but a meaningful one worth looking into.

9. Wait to request your transcript.

If you're heading somewhere after graduation and need to send proof of your degree, hold off on requesting your transcript until your degree is officially on it. Once grades are posted and your completion is verified, the degree award will appear on your transcript and you can request it through the National Student Clearinghouse.

10. Slow down and take it in.

Graduation day moves fast. The processional, the name call, the handshake, it's over before you know it. The more prepared you are going in, the more present you can actually be when it counts. You've worked hard to get here. Let yourself enjoy it.

Congratulations, Blackhawks. See you out there.