Commencement dos and don'ts

Grad dos and don'ts

Do!

  • Double check. Make sure you have your cap, gown, tassel, honor cord/hood (if applicable) and name card with you.
  • Arrive at NOON. Traffic can be unpredictable. The parking lot is huge, the walk to the venue is long and security can take time.
  • Check in. If you did not pick up your name card and honor cord at rehearsal, you can get them at the check-in table Saturday.
  • Wear sensible shoes. The terrain ranges from gravel to pavement. There are ramps and stairs. You’ll be on your feet waiting to process. Trust us.
  • Listen. The marshals are your friends. Let them guide you. This can save you from ending up on the blooper reel.
  • Have fun! This is a celebration of a huge accomplishment. Post your pics at #WSUV2024

Don't!

  • Be late. Plan to arrive at the amphitheater by noon and be in the gathering area by 12:15 p.m. to line up. The processional begins promptly at 12:45 p.m. We’re not waiting for you. Really, we’re not.
  • Bring extra stuff. There is no secure place to store your belongings during the ceremony. Guests of the amphitheater, including graduates, will walk through a metal detector at entry. Carry-in belongings will be searched. Only small clutches, wristlets or fanny packs no bigger than 4.5 x 6.5” or clear plastic bags no bigger than 12 x 12 x 6” will be allowed inside. Do not bring balloons, gift bags, fireworks, outside food or drink, coolers, laser pointers, pets, weapons, umbrellas, strollers or playpens, skateboards or inline skates. These are not allowed, and you will be asked to return these items to your car.
  • Forget to be grateful. Take a moment to thank the friend, professor, parent/guardian and anyone else who helped you achieve this goal.

Guest dos and don'ts

Do!

  • Arrive early. Traffic can be unpredictable. The parking lot is huge, the walk to the venue is long and security can take time.
  • Limit what you bring. Guests of the amphitheater will walk through a metal detector at entry. Carry-in belongings will be searched. Only small clutches, wristlets or fanny packs no bigger than 4.5 x 6.5” or clear plastic bags no bigger than 12 x 12 x 6” will be allowed inside.
  • Use the Mobility Assistance stations. Drop guests who need assistance at a canopy marked “Mobility Assistance—Cart Rides,” and let us give them a lift to the gate.
  • Wear sensible shoes. The terrain ranges from gravel to pavement. There are ramps and stairs. Trust us.
  • Visit the information booth. All of your questions can be answered in one stop.
  • Bring credit, debit or mobile pay. Concessions will be available.
  • Listen for cues. The audience will stand in place for the processional and recessional.
  • Have fun! This is a celebration of a huge accomplishment. Post your pics at #WSUV2024

Don't!

  • Bring extra stuff. Do not bring balloons, gift bags, fireworks, outside food or drink, coolers, laser pointers, pets, weapons, umbrellas, strollers or playpens, skateboards or inline skates. These are not allowed, and you will be asked to return these items to your car.
  • Save seats. If you want your party to sit together, you must arrive together.
  • Be late. The ceremony begins promptly at 1 p.m. Latecomers will be seated in a designated section.
  • Stand in the aisle. The amphitheater requires aisles to remain clear, so please take photos from your seat.