Graduation is a momentous occasion that marks the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. As you step across the stage to receive your diploma, you will likely be adorned with a graduation cord, a colorful symbol of your academic achievements. Wearing a graduation cord is an honor, and it is essential to do so correctly to convey the significance of the occasion. However, with so many different types of cords and tassel, it can be challenging to know how to wear them properly. This guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to wear a graduation cord, ensuring that you look your best on your big day.
The first step is to identify the type of graduation cord you have. There are several different types of cords, each with a specific meaning. Honor cords, for example, are typically awarded to students who have achieved a certain GPA or who have been involved in specific extracurricular activities. Service cords are awarded to students who have volunteered their time to the community, while leadership cords are awarded to students who have demonstrated leadership skills. Once you have identified the type of cord you have, you can begin to wear it.
To wear a graduation cord, drape it around your neck so that the tassel hangs down in front of your chest. The cord should be worn over your gown, but under your hood, if you are wearing one. If you are wearing multiple cords, arrange them in order of importance, with the most prestigious cord being worn closest to your neck. Finally, adjust the tassel so that it hangs evenly on both sides. Wearing a graduation cord is a proud tradition that symbolizes your hard work and dedication. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that you wear it correctly and with pride.
Selecting the Correct Cord
Identifying the appropriate graduation cord for your academic achievements is crucial. Here are some key considerations to guide your selection:
Honor Societies
Many universities and colleges recognize students with exceptional academic achievements by inducting them into honor societies. These societies typically award cords in specific colors to signify membership. For example, the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society awards gold cords, while the Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society awards green cords.
Academic Distinction
Some institutions award cords based on overall academic performance. These cords often come in a range of colors and materials to symbolize different levels of distinction. For instance, a red cord may represent summa cum laude (highest honors), while a blue cord may represent magna cum laude (high honors), and a white cord may represent cum laude (honors).
Major or Concentration
Certain academic departments or programs may award cords to students who have completed a specific major or concentration. These cords typically feature the colors associated with the field of study. For example, a business major may receive a blue cord, while an engineering major may receive a yellow cord.
It is important to consult with your university or college’s graduation office to determine the specific cords that are recognized for your institution and academic achievements.
| Honor Society | Cord Color |
|---|---|
| Phi Kappa Phi | Gold |
| Alpha Lambda Delta | Green |
| Beta Gamma Sigma | Bronze |
Wearing the Cord Properly
When to Wear the Cord
The most appropriate time to wear your graduation cord is during the commencement ceremony. However, it is also common to wear the cord at graduation parties and other post-graduation events.
How to Wear the Cord
Here are the proper steps on how to wear a graduation cord:
**1. Drape the cord over your neck.** The cord should rest evenly on both shoulders.
**2. Cross the two ends of the cord and bring them to the back of your neck.** The ends should be crossed at the base of your neck, where the cord meets.
**3. Bring the cords back to the front.** The left end of the cord should be on your right shoulder, and the right end should be on your left shoulder.
**4. Cross the two ends again and make a slip knot.** The slip knot should be at the base of your neck, securing the cord in place.
**5. Adjust the cord as needed.** The cord should be snug but not too tight. You should be able to move your neck and head comfortably.
What to Do With the Cord After Graduation
Once you have completed graduation, you can keep the cord as a memento of your achievement. You can also choose to donate the cord to a charity organization for them to reuse it. If the cord is made of a delicate material, you can store it in a protective case or box.
Etiquette for Wearing Graduation Cords
1. Order of Cords:
Cords should be arranged in ascending order of significance, with the most prestigious honors worn at the front.
2. Display Properly:
Cords should be draped evenly around the neck, resting just below the shoulders. Avoid tangling or bunching the cords.
3. Correct Placement:
The specific placement of graduation cords varies slightly depending on the institution and type of honor. Here is a general guideline:
| Type of Cord | Placement |
|---|---|
| Honor society cords | Worn around the neck, with the triangle at the back |
| Academic achievement cords | Worn around the neck, with the tassel hanging at the right |
| Military service cords | Worn across the right shoulder, with the tassel hanging down the left |
| University affiliation cords | Worn around the neck, with the tassel hanging at the left |
4. Respect the Cords:
Graduation cords represent significant accomplishments. Handle them with care and avoid touching the tassels excessively.
5. Removal:
Cords should be removed after the graduation ceremony, as they are not appropriate for everyday wear.
Color Meanings for Graduation Cords
Graduation cords are worn by students to signify their academic achievements and accomplishments. They are typically worn over the shoulders and drape down the front of the gown. The colors of the cords vary depending on the field of study, the level of degree, and the institution awarding the degree.
Traditional Colors
The most common colors for graduation cords are:
- Gold: Arts and Humanities
- Silver: Science and Mathematics
- Bronze: Business and Economics
- Blue: Education and Social Sciences
- Green: Health Sciences
- Red: Law
- White: Nursing
- Yellow: Agriculture
- Orange: Engineering and Technology
- Purple: Veterinary Medicine
Specialized Colors
In addition to the traditional colors, some institutions award specialized cords to recognize specific achievements or affiliations. These cords may be worn in addition to or in place of the traditional cords.
Honor Cords
Honor cords are awarded to students who have achieved a certain level of academic excellence. The requirements for honor cords vary depending on the institution, but they typically require a high GPA or a certain rank in the graduating class.
| Color | Achievement |
|---|---|
| Gold | Summa Cum Laude |
| Silver | Magna Cum Laude |
| Bronze | Cum Laude |
Displaying Cords on Regalia
Graduation cords are typically worn over the shoulders and draped across the chest, with the tassel hanging down over the right shoulder. There are a few different ways to display cords, depending on your preference and the type of regalia you are wearing.
Number of Cords
If you are wearing multiple cords, you can either display them all together or group them by category. For example, you could group all of your academic cords together, all of your honor society cords together, and so on.
Length of Cords
The length of your cords will also affect how you display them. If your cords are all the same length, you can simply drape them over your shoulders and let them hang down evenly. If your cords are different lengths, you can try to arrange them so that the shortest cords are in front and the longest cords are in back.
Order of Cords
There is no official order in which to wear your cords, but there are a few general guidelines that you can follow. In general, you should wear your academic cords before your honor society cords. If you are wearing multiple academic cords, you should wear them in descending order of importance.
How to Secure Cords
There are a few different ways to secure your cords so that they stay in place. You can use a safety pin, a cord clip, or a piece of ribbon. If you are using a safety pin, be sure to pin the cords through the fabric of your regalia, not through your skin.
| Option | Description | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety Pin | A simple and effective way to secure cords. Be sure to pin the cords through the fabric of your regalia, not through your skin. | ||||||||
| Cord Clip | A small, plastic clip that can be used to hold cords together. Cord clips are available in a variety of colors and styles. | ||||||||
| Ribbon | A piece of ribbon can be used to tie cords together or to create a decorative loop. Ribbon is available in a variety of colors and widths.
Respecting the Honor of Graduation CordsGraduation cords are a highly respected symbol of academic achievement and are worn with pride by graduates. It is essential to show respect for the honor they represent. Proper Etiquette for Wearing Graduation CordsThere are a few key guidelines to follow when wearing graduation cords:
Special Considerations for Wearing Graduation CordsThere are some special considerations to keep in mind when wearing graduation cords:
Graduation cords are a valuable symbol of academic achievement and should be worn with respect and honor. By following these guidelines, you can show your appreciation for the honor they represent.
How To Wear A Graduation CordGraduation cords are a symbol of academic achievement and are often worn at graduation ceremonies. However, some people are confused on how to wear them. Here is a guide on how to wear a graduation cord: 1. Place the cord around your neck. The tassel should hang down on your left side. 2. Cross the cords in front of your body. The right cord should be on top. 3. Bring the ends of the cords back behind your neck. 4. Tie the ends of the cords together. 5. Adjust the cords so that they hang evenly. People Also Ask AboutDo you wear the graduation cord over or under a stole?The graduation cord is worn over the stole. What side does the graduation cord tassel go?The graduation cord tassel hangs down on the left side. How long should a graduation cord be?The graduation cord should be long enough to reach the bottom of your waist. |
