The graduation ceremony is a significant milestone in every student's life, marking the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. As you prepare to walk across the stage and receive your diploma, you may be wondering about the proper way to wear your hood, a traditional academic attire. The hood, also known as a academic hood or graduation hood, is a symbolic part of the graduation regalia, representing your academic achievements and field of study. In this article, we will explore five ways to wear your hood for the graduation ceremony, ensuring you look dignified and confident on your special day.
Understanding the Significance of the Graduation Hood
The graduation hood is a time-honored tradition in academic circles, dating back to the 12th century. It is typically worn by graduates, faculty members, and other academic officials during formal academic events. The hood's color and lining signify the graduate's field of study, while the material and design may vary depending on the institution. For example, a graduate in the humanities may wear a hood with a crimson lining, while a graduate in engineering may wear a hood with a silver lining.
Proper Way to Wear Your Graduation Hood
Wearing your graduation hood correctly is essential to show respect for the academic tradition and your institution. Here are five ways to wear your hood for the graduation ceremony:
Key Points
- The hood should be worn with the opening at the back of the neck, allowing the velvet or fabric to drape evenly over the shoulders.
- The hood's color and lining should match your field of study and institution.
- The hood should be worn with the graduate's gown, but not with other academic regalia.
- The hood may be worn with a tam or mortarboard, but not with a hat or cap.
- Practical considerations, such as adjusting the hood for comfort, are essential for a stress-free graduation ceremony.
Five Ways to Wear Your Graduation Hood
Wearing Your Hood with a Classic Drape
The classic drape is the most traditional way to wear your graduation hood. Simply place the hood over your shoulders, allowing the opening to rest at the back of your neck. The velvet or fabric should drape evenly over your shoulders, with the lining visible from the back. This style is ideal for graduates who want to showcase their academic achievements in a timeless and elegant way.
| Field of Study | Hood Color | Lining Color |
|---|---|---|
| Humanities | Crimson | Crimson |
| Engineering | Silver | Silver |
| Arts | Gold | Gold |
Wearing Your Hood with a Slightly Asymmetrical Drape
For a more modern take on the classic drape, consider wearing your hood with a slightly asymmetrical drape. This style involves placing the hood over your shoulders, but with one side slightly lower than the other. This creates a subtle, nuanced look that adds a touch of personality to your graduation attire. To achieve this look, simply adjust the hood to one side, ensuring it remains comfortable and secure.
Wearing Your Hood with a Tucked-In Style
If you prefer a more streamlined look, consider wearing your hood with a tucked-in style. This involves tucking the hood’s edges under your gown or robe, creating a neat and tidy appearance. This style is ideal for graduates who want to emphasize their gown or robe, while still showcasing their academic achievements.
Wearing Your Hood with a Tam or Mortarboard
Wearing your hood with a tam or mortarboard is a popular choice among graduates. This style involves placing the hood over your shoulders, then adding a tam or mortarboard on top. This creates a dignified and academic look, perfect for formal graduation ceremonies. When wearing your hood with a tam or mortarboard, ensure the hood’s edges are secure and won’t interfere with the hat or cap.
Wearing Your Hood with Practical Considerations
Finally, consider practical considerations when wearing your graduation hood. For example, you may want to adjust the hood to ensure it doesn’t obstruct your view or interfere with your diploma. You may also want to consider the fabric and material of your hood, choosing a style that is comfortable and breathable. By prioritizing practicality, you can enjoy a stress-free graduation ceremony and focus on celebrating your achievements.
What is the significance of the graduation hood?
+The graduation hood is a symbolic part of the graduation regalia, representing your academic achievements and field of study. The hood’s color and lining signify the graduate’s field of study, while the material and design may vary depending on the institution.
How do I wear my graduation hood with a tam or mortarboard?
+Wearing your hood with a tam or mortarboard involves placing the hood over your shoulders, then adding a tam or mortarboard on top. Ensure the hood’s edges are secure and won’t interfere with the hat or cap.
Can I wear my graduation hood with other academic regalia?
+The hood should be worn with the graduate’s gown, but not with other academic regalia. However, you may want to consider wearing your hood with a tam or mortarboard, as mentioned earlier.
