What’s up my people!
So I’ve been asked to offer some sage advice to you all on your big day. As much as I wanted to say for you to simply “get lit and turn-up”, I thought I’d actually be serious and give you a few tips to make sure you have a Rock-Steady time at convo. #BePrepared (Is this even a thing?)
Pre-game Routine
- Pick out your outfits ahead of time and lay them out before you sleep. For those of you who don’t do well with mornings (like myself), this will help make things go a bit smoother. Wear shoes that are comfortable – it may be tempting to wear stilettos, but the last thing you want is to trip on stage (true story).
- Check the Weather. Vancouver’s known to get its fair share of rain, so it’s a good idea to see what’s going on with mother nature so you all can dress accordingly.
- Make dinner reservations early. If you’re planning to go post-ceremony for dinner near SFU, chances are you’re not the only one thinking the same. To avoid excessive wait times, be sure to make reservations ahead of time, or find a restaurant a little farther away to be on the safe side.
- Sleep early. You all should get your beauty rest to look picture perfect – plus you won’t run the risk of nodding off during the 3-hour+ ceremony. Yeah, it gets pretty long.
Rise and Shine Y’all
- Watch out for parking. If you’re driving the day of, be sure to make extra time to find parking. Traffic gets crazy with everyone clambering for the same few spots, so be prepared to go a bit further to find an open spot.
- Pick up your grad gowns early. Not only will you be able to avoid long lines, you’ll also be able to get in some extra time to take pictures before the ceremony.
Game Plan
- Make sure your celllphone’s on silent or turned off – the last thing we need is Despacito blasting out during someone’s speech. Or maybe that wouldn’t be so bad?
- Have a designated meet-up place after the ceremony! It’s a nightmare trying to coordinate everyone in the crowd, so be sure to plan out at least where you plan to be later on.
- Don’t forget about the famjam. If you have parents or friends visiting from out-of-town, make sure you give them a heads-up on what to expect. It might also help to hand over your phone to a point-person, as you’ll probably be too busy taking photos to take phone calls.
Remember to Breathe
- Relax. The day will go by faster than you think – be sure to take the time to just soak it all in.
Turn-up
Ah, the after-party.
Whether your idea of fun is chilling at the beach, watching Naruto and playing league at home, or heading to a bar or club, be sure to have fun in your own way.
Last year I rounded up an organizing committee made up of fellow grads, and we threw the most bumpin’ post-grad party on a boat. Not sure if it’s possible this year, but hey, just putting it out there.
Now they always say Congratulations
*Sorry, I couldn’t resist throwing in a Post Malone reference
Well that’s the end of some of the tips off the top of my head.
I’m so excited for you all as you hit this milestone in your life, and head out into the world to do great things.
Welcome to the Alumni life – I’ll see you around!
– Enoch