As I said in my last post, there are two important things going on this week before Spring Break. Here’s the second one – Grad Fest again! Luckily for those of us who missed Grad Fest in February, it’s back! If you are graduating this year either as a Master’s or PhD student, check out all the Commencement related announcements, grad packages, rings, sashes, diploma frames and more at the USC Bookstore on the main campus Thursday and Friday this week from 10-4!
I’ve scoured a few graduation websites so let me break it down:
- While most of the graduation material is available online, depending on what you buy, you maysave on shipping costs if you buy it in person. For example, if you choose a Diploma frame that’s available on-campus, you can save on shipping.
- Herff Jonesis the official USC vendor and will have tables set up outside the Bookstore. They can answer questions about all of their offerings. Although the focus is on Grad Packages, you definitely have the choice to pick and choose what swag you want for your commencement. Check in with your family because even if you’re not into buying anything, they might be!
- Customized sashes: all students (I think?) are required to wear sashes. If you want to customize yours, the deadline is March 23rd so be sure to submit your order in time!
- Cap/gown and commencement regalia: PhD students get the perks of having official USC regalia. For the rest of us, the best option is to rent your cap and gown starting May 1st at the bookstore. Even with a rental, you get a souvenir tassel that you can keep. You can also buy the regalia (cap/gown etc) if you’d like a memento and those are available online too.
- DEN Students: Almost everything except the cap and gown rental can be done online. Class rings have more customization options on the phone or in person. The cap/gown rental is first come, first served so you may need to ask an on-campus friend or call the USC bookstore to see what resources are available for you.
In the midst of midterms and the stress of projects and personal life, graduation may feel like you’re just stumbling across the finish line. However, whatever your degree is, you’re only getting it once! Take the time to plan ahead for celebrating yourself and your achievements. Because guess what? You did it! Fight on.
Published on March 8th, 2017
Last updated on January 20th, 2021