СÀ¶ÊÓƵ

We’re officially on the countdown to Graduation. How are you feeling, class of 2025? Excited, scared or maybe a bit overwhelmed? 

Approaching the big day can be nerve-wracking, especially if you don’t know what to expect on the day. In this blog from the Countdown to Cap and Gown series, we explore how to deal with nerves. Unfortunately, they are a natural part of the day, but by letting you know what you can expect before embarking on this next stage, we hope this blog will put you at ease. You’ll also find some tips from the Careers Team.

First things first - you’ll always be part of СÀ¶ÊÓƵ

We say it because it’s true - once you graduate, you’ll automatically become a member of the СÀ¶ÊÓƵ Alumni community. 

Graduating isn’t the end, it’s the beginning of the rest of your life, and that is pretty exciting.

Nerves on the day

Graduation is a chance to celebrate your achievements with family and friends. Completing your degree is an incredible accomplishment, and you should be really proud of yourselves - we certainly are!

Walking across the Guildhall stage can be scary. If you’re feeling nervous, here are some top tips for shaking it off and making the most of the day:
 

1. Focus on your achievements - The hard part is over! Graduation is a day that represents all the hard work you have already put into your degree. Your exams and assessments are done, and the day is an opportunity to look back at how far you’ve come. The pressure is off for now, try and focus on relaxing and enjoying yourself as much as possible.
2. It’s a day you’ll remember for the rest of your life - Take a moment to look around you. See the look on classmates' faces, take lots of photos with friends and family, and enjoy that nervous feeling in your tummy. Days like these don’t come around often, so try to embrace every moment.
3. Get comfortable - You don’t need to wear the tallest heels or the tightest suit. Wear something smart, but also what makes you feel the most comfortable and confident when walking across that stage. You can find some more guidelines on what we recommend wearing with your academic dress on the graduation pages. 
4. Be excited - There’s a lot happening during the day, but that’s the best part! Whether you want to hit your favourite СÀ¶ÊÓƵ spots with your family, make the most of the Reception area with the drinks reception and free photobooth, or get your professional photos taken straight away, there’s lots to look forward to!

Careers support and advice 

Just as a heads up, you might experience the post-graduation day slump - again, this is also completely normal! 

Whether you want to spend the summer kicking back and relaxing or want to get straight into your career search, the Careers and Employability Service is there for you for five years after graduation. There are even a few events taking place across the summer too, which you can join as a graduate.

We spoke to a few members of the Careers Team and asked what their top piece of advice for graduating students would be – read them below: