The ultimate guide to your convocation day

Graduation is not the end, but the beginning of everything you’ve worked for.

Hey future grads, congratulations! You’re almost there! After all those late nights, endless assignments and way too much coffee, you’re about to step into one of the most exciting days of your life: Convocation Day.

Whether this is your first time or you’re heading to round two (like me, preparing for my second convocation at Humber Polytechnic), this is the day you’ve worked hard for.

It’s not just about the fancy gown and walking across the stage (though let’s be real, that’s a big part of it)—it’s a moment to celebrate everything you’ve achieved.

But what’s the day actually going to look like? And how can you make sure it’s memorable? Here’s what you can expect and how to make the most out of it.

Gown up and get ready

A man and woman in graduation gowns are talking to each other. — *Picture by Humber Polytechnic – Humber’s Digital Asset Management*

Alright, so you’ve got your tickets and your family is coming to cheer you on; now it’s time to put on the iconic graduation gown. But before you get too excited about looking great, grab your name card! You’ll need this to get your gown and regalia, so don’t forget it.

After that, head to the marshalling room at least an hour before the ceremony starts. This is where you’ll be organized with your fellow grads, so make sure you’re ready.

Pro tip: Leave your bags and phones with your guests. You won’t be able to stash them anywhere and scrambling for your stuff during the procession is not the vibe.

Just trust me on this one—you’ll want to enjoy the ceremony without juggling your personal items.

Walk in like you own it

Three women, wearing graduation gowns, are smiling and walking arm in arm. — *Picture by Humber Polytechnic – Humber’s Digital Asset Management*

About 20 minutes before the ceremony begins, you’ll be marshalled out of the room in neat rows, ready to join the procession. This is your moment to shine—so, channel your inner runway model and walk confidently down the aisle like you’re on a VIP red carpet.

No need to feel self-conscious. Just own it! You’ve worked hard to get here, so it’s time to show it off.

Feeling a little extra? Throw in a wave to the crowd! It’s a nice touch — and who doesn’t want to feel like a superstar for a moment? Trust me, it’ll make you feel like you’re starring in your own movie, even if you’re just walking onto the stage.

That being said, remember that this is a group effort. Stay in line and follow the person in front of you.

Once you reach your chair, stand tall and proud until the master of ceremonies steps up to the podium. This is your time to soak it all in—keep the energy high and get ready to enjoy the rest of the day!

Embrace the moment

A group of people is walking into a hall lit by stage lights. — *Picture by Humber Polytechnic – Humber’s Digital Asset Management*

The ceremony is a special moment, and to ensure everything runs smoothly, graduates and guests are asked to remain seated for the entire event and keep devices turned off or on silent.

It will last about 90 minutes and include key moments like opening remarks, speeches from Humber’s Board of Governors and the president, the presentation of the honorary degree and the awarding of credentials.

For those who can’t attend in person, a live stream of the ceremony will be available, along with links to past ceremonies.

As you settle in, remember to stay focused and resist the urge to check your phone—this is your moment and you don’t want to miss when your name is called!

Lastly, make sure your contact details are up to date on MyHumber before the ceremony to ensure your tickets reach the right address, saving you from any last-minute surprises.

Step into the spotlight

A woman in a graduation gown is standing on stage, holding a degree in one hand and shaking another person's hand with a proud smile. — *Via GIPHY*

During the conferring of credentials, event staff will guide you to rise and follow your program marshal to the stage, where two graduates will be honoured at a time by the president and chair of the Board of Governors.

As you step onto the stage, hand your name card to the person collecting them. When your name is called, walk with confidence across the stage like you’re in the spotlight (because you are!).

Stop, smile and face the president and the chair for that epic handshake moment—you’re officially a graduate! After the handshake, you’ll be handed your diploma folder; then, it’s time to keep walking across the stage and down the exit ramp.

Once you’ve crossed the stage and made your way back to your seat, kick back and relax. The ceremony isn’t over until the master of ceremonies gives the official “you’re done!” call.

If you’re feeling nervous, it’s totally normal. Everyone’s been there. Just smile, walk and take in the moment—you’ve earned it.

Time to celebrate

A group of women, wearing graduation gowns, are laughing together. — *Picture by Humber Polytechnic – Humber’s Digital Asset Management*

After the ceremony, it’s time to relax and celebrate with your family and friends. Don’t rush out of the ballroom too quickly—you’ll want to savour this moment.

The platform party will exit first and then each row will be directed out. Wait for the marshal to guide you and then head to the reception area where snacks and refreshments await (yes, treats!).

This is the time to take pictures, laugh and enjoy the day. Grab some snacks to fuel up for the endless “What’s next?” questions and “Congratulations!” from your family.

The fun isn’t over just yet, but it’s almost time to say “goodbye” to your gown. After the reception, you’ll return your gown and regalia.

While it might feel a little sad handing it back (I mean, it was your look for the day), don’t worry—you’ll have the memories, your diploma and a ton of photos to remember it all by!

Capture the moment

A group of people in graduation gowns are posing for a photo. — *Picture by Humber Polytechnic – Humber’s Digital Asset Management*

Don’t let this day slip by without capturing the memories. Studio Nostalgia offers professional grad photography services for both Humber and University of Guelph-Humber grads. You can choose from classic shots in your regalia or add some personal flair with props.

To book your session, simply register online using your student number and schedule an appointment at their convenient locations.

Don’t forget to bring your $10 cash deposit and your student number. After your photo session, you’ll be able to view your proofs within 48 hours and pick your favourites.

Your photos will be mailed directly to you, so there’s no hassle. For more details, check their website and make sure to capture those memories that’ll last a lifetime!

A man is smiling while holding his degree certificate, with "GRAD" written in the background with balloons. — *Picture provided by Aditya Mohan*

Convocation isn’t just about walking across a stage; it’s a celebration of everything you’ve worked for and accomplished. Take a deep breath, smile big and enjoy every second.

Before you go off and celebrate, a couple of important things to remember: make sure you RSVP when the email comes (and check your spam folder just in case).

You’ll get an info package with ceremony details, three guest tickets and your name card about a week before the big day. For those with convocation coming up in spring 2025, don’t forget to check the dates!

Now, take a moment to celebrate—this is a huge milestone and you’ve worked incredibly hard to get here!

Enjoy every bit of the journey ahead. This is the start of something incredible!

Feature image courtesy of Humber Polytechnic — Humber Digital Asset Management.

Need help making a graduation checklist? Check out the ultimate Humber and UofGH graduation tradition checklist!