Graduation at Humber Polytechnic and the University of Guelph-Humber is much more than just a ceremony; it’s a celebration that honours your entire post-secondary journey. It’s about the late-night study sessions, the endless group projects, the caffeine-fueled mornings and the unforgettable memories made with friends, professors and mentors.
Every Humber and UofGH graduate celebrates a unique journey with joy, accomplishment and traditions that make their graduation an unforgettable experience. From cherished keepsakes to time-honoured rituals, these traditions help students mark the milestones in a special way. Here are a few that every Humber and UofGH graduate looks forward to as they celebrate their achievements and create lasting memories:
Snagging a graduation teddy bear
A Humber and a UofGH graduation isn’t complete without an adorable plush grad bear in a mini cap and gown. Available at the campus bookstore, these keepsake bears are a perfect reminder of your hard work and achievements.
Want to make it even more personal? Give your bear a fun name like “Humber,” “Gradzilla,” or anything that adds to the whimsy of this beloved tradition!
Booking a glow-up graduation shoot
Graduation is the perfect time to get glammed up and capture those unforgettable moments in photos. Whether you book a professional grad photoshoot or head to campus with friends for a DIY session, posing in your cap and gown is a must. You can register online by quickly creating an account using your student number at Studio Nostalgia! Then, book an appointment by choosing a date and time for your photo session.
It’s your time to shine, so be sure to snap some pictures to cherish and share. Strike your best pose, whether you’re showing off that grad smile or throwing in a playful cap toss—it’s a rite of passage you’ll look back on with fondness.
Framing that hard-earned diploma
A diploma is so much more than just a piece of paper; it symbolizes the years of dedication, perseverance and countless moments that shaped your academic journey. Displaying your diploma in a special frame is a perfect way to celebrate that achievement.
Take it a step further with an official Humber or UofGH diploma frame to ensure your hard work is showcased proudly. It’s a lasting tribute to the culmination of all your efforts.
Wearing graduation merch
It’s time to show off your Humber and UofGH pride with some cool grad merchandise! From cozy hoodies to stylish T-shirts, wearing your graduation apparel is the ultimate way to celebrate your accomplishment.
Whether you’re rocking a hoodie on campus one last time or wearing a T-shirt for a casual hangout with friends, you’ve earned the right to wear your Humber or UofGH gear loud and proud. Plus, you’ll always have a tangible reminder of your academic journey.
Shouting out your family on stage
For many students, the moment they walk across the stage is an opportunity to acknowledge those who helped them get there. It’s not uncommon for grads to shout a heartfelt “Love you, Mom!” or “Thanks, Dad!” as they make their way across the stage.
This simple but powerful gesture is a way to share the moment with your biggest supporters and give them the recognition they truly deserve. It’s a little thing that makes a big impact and it’s a tradition that makes the ceremony even more special.
Post-grad beverage pop
The celebration doesn’t stop at the ceremony. After walking across that stage, it’s time to pop the champagne (or your drink of choice) and toast to your hard work, friendships and future.
Whether you’re enjoying a sparkling water-filled brunch with friends or sharing a celebratory drink with your family, this is the perfect way to mark the occasion. It’s a festive and joyful tradition that allows you to relax, reflect and truly celebrate all that you’ve accomplished.
Flooding IG with #humbergrad or #GHgrad pics
Graduation day is one of the most shareable moments in your academic journey. Of course, it’s not truly official until you’ve flooded your Instagram feed with photos and memories from the big day. From boomerangs of your cap toss to group selfies with friends, social media is the perfect platform to share your excitement and joy with the world.
Don’t forget to use the #humbergrad or #GHgrad hashtags to join in on the collective celebration and connect with fellow grads. This tradition has become an essential part of the graduation experience and is a fun way to keep those memories alive.
Making graduation even more special
These Humber and UofGH grad traditions are more than just fun activities—they add a sense of excitement and sentimentality to your big day. Each one helps create lasting memories that make the graduation ceremony even more unforgettable.
Whether it’s the iconic shoutouts, the thoughtful keepsakes or the epic photo shoots, these traditions ensure that your graduation is truly special. Which ones are you most excited to take part in? The countdown to graduation starts now!
Got a unique graduation tradition or a creative way to celebrate? May it be a DIY cap design, a meaningful send-off ritual or a fun way to honour your journey, we want to hear about it! Share your traditions with us @shareignite and inspire the next class to celebrate in style!
And don’t forget to enjoy a stress-free graduation photo moment with Studio Nostalgia! It’s easy and simple. Just book your appointment online, bring a $10 cash deposit and your student number. Then, you’re all set! Capture the joy of your achievement without any stress!
Feature image courtesy of Humber Polytechnic — Humber Digital Asset Management.
Wondering how to have the best grad photo experience? Check out how to feel your best for graduation photos!
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