TUESDAY, MAY 11, 1999

Ceremony makes sense

A common cry from the student body is, where exactly do our fees go?

Well, we still do not know. But the mandatory $40 fee students are required to spend on a grad check goes toward our big day.

What most students do not know is organizers are really concerned that our graduation ceremony be enjoyable and to the point. In case some of you are questioning why we do not have a ceremony with the entire graduating class and one keynote speaker, here you have it.

We are too big.

There is not a facility in town that could hold all of us and our guests collectively.

And as for a keynote speaker, if every graduating student's name is to be read, there is not enough time in the two hours allotted for each college's ceremony.

This is actually a blessing in disguise. After all, who wants to sit and listen to the rhetorical, "Now You're Entering The Real World" speech? We know.

Graduates can invite an unlimited number of guests without the need for invitations or reservations. We like this.

It makes it so you do not have to choose between your mother and significant other. That could get ugly.

Coordinators approximate each graduate will have ten guests - an overestimation most likely but smart on their part all the same.

After the two-hour ceremony, there is an informal reception in the University Student Union for one last pat on the back. Here there will be food and drink for you and your guests. Aw shucks.

And know that all of the recent paint, flowers and construction are in preparation for our celebrated day.

So go on out there and shine when you hear your name, be proud and give props to your new alma mater.