Are you an East Carolina University (ECU) student eagerly anticipating your graduation day? If so, you’re in the right place. This comprehensive article covers everything you need to know about the ECU graduation date, including important deadlines, ceremony details, and tips for planning your special day.
Graduation Date
ECU holds two graduation ceremonies each year: one in May and one in December. The May ceremony is typically held on the third Saturday of the month, while the December ceremony is usually held on the second Saturday of the month.
May Graduation 2023: Saturday, May 20, 2023
December Graduation 2023: Saturday, December 9, 2023
Deadlines
Application for Graduation: Students must submit an application for graduation by the following deadlines:
- May Graduation: March 1
- December Graduation: September 1
Cap and Gown Ordering: Cap and gown orders must be placed by the following dates:
- May Graduation: April 15
- December Graduation: October 15
Event Ticket Request: Graduating students can request event tickets for their guests by the following dates:
- May Graduation: April 1
- December Graduation: October 1
Ceremony Details
Location: Both the May and December graduation ceremonies are held at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium. The stadium has a capacity of approximately 50,000 people.
Time: The ceremonies typically begin at 9:00 AM. Graduating students should arrive at the stadium at least two hours before the ceremony to allow for parking, check-in, and seating.
Dress Code: Graduates are required to wear the official ECU cap and gown. Guests are encouraged to dress in business attire or other appropriate clothing.
Diplomas: Graduates will receive their diplomas at the end of the ceremony. They will be asked to present their student ID card to receive their diploma.
Planning Your Graduation Day
Parking: ECU provides limited parking for guests at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure a parking space. Alternative parking options include the Minges Coliseum parking lot and the off-campus parking lots at Westgate Center and Harper’s Landing.
Seating: Graduates will be seated in designated sections of the stadium based on their college or school. Guests will be seated in general admission sections.
Weather: The weather in Greenville, North Carolina, can be unpredictable, especially during the spring and fall. Be sure to check the weather forecast before graduating day and dress accordingly.
Photography: ECU provides a professional photographer at the ceremony to capture the moment. Graduates and guests are also welcome to take their own photos.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not Applying for Graduation on Time: Failure to submit an application for graduation by the deadline will result in the student not being eligible to graduate.
Not Ordering Cap and Gown on Time: Orders for caps and gowns must be placed by the specified deadlines. Late orders may not be processed in time for the ceremony.
Arriving Late to the Ceremony: Graduating students should arrive at the stadium at least two hours before the ceremony to avoid any delays or missed opportunities.
Not Following Dress Code: Graduates and guests are expected to dress appropriately for the occasion. Failure to follow the dress code may result in being denied entry to the ceremony.
Forgetting Student ID Card: Graduates will need to present their student ID card to receive their diploma. Forgetting the ID card will result in a delay in receiving the diploma.
Conclusion
Your graduation from East Carolina University is a significant milestone in your life. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that your special day goes smoothly and seamlessly. Remember to apply for graduation on time, order your cap and gown, arrive early to the ceremony, dress appropriately, and don’t forget your student ID card. Congratulations on your upcoming graduation from ECU!
Contact Information:
- ECU Registrar’s Office: 252-328-6681
- ECU Commencement Office: 252-328-4770
Official ECU Commencement Website: https://commencement.ecu.edu/
** Frequently Asked Questions:**
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What is the dress code for graduation? Graduates are required to wear the official ECU cap and gown. Guests are encouraged to dress in business attire or other appropriate clothing.
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Can I bring my children to the ceremony? Yes, children are welcome to attend the graduation ceremony. However, they must be supervised by a responsible adult at all times.
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Is there a fee to attend graduation? No, there is no fee to attend the ECU graduation ceremony. However, graduates must purchase their cap and gown.
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Can I get a refund on my cap and gown if I can’t attend the ceremony? Yes, you can get a refund on your cap and gown if you provide proof that you were unable to attend the ceremony due to unforeseen circumstances.