Tips for Graduates

Baccalaureate and Commencement are formal College ceremonies marking the end of the academic year. During these occasions, we publicly recognize those who have met the requirements to earn a degree.

All students who meet the requirements for graduation are expected to attend Commencement. Those who wish to be excused should notify the Office of Registration and Records. Of note, Registration and Records will notify students who do not meet graduation requirements.

Before Commencement

Be Aware of Graduation Requirements and Deadlines. Please visit the Registration and Records website to keep updated on graduation requirements and deadlines.

Reserve Housing for Senior Week

Senior week housing is only available for the College's residential students—i.e., those who have lived on campus during the current academic year. All other students must arrange for off-campus housing.

On April 2, the Office of Residence Life will distribute an online invitation for housing to all residential students. The invitation must be completed by April 12. Those who do not submit a reservation for housing by the deadline will not be permitted to stay on campus during Senior Week.

All residential housing facilities will close after Commencement.

On Commencement Day

11 a.m. Ceremony
Line up no later than 10 a.m.

Graduates are required to be lined up no later than 10 a.m. in Thompson Gymnasium. Please be aware that graduates who are not in line at 10 a.m. on Commencement day may not be able to process with the rest of the graduating class. If an emergency arises the day of Commencement that prevents a graduate from participating, he or she must call and leave a message at 717-361-1423.

4 p.m. Ceremony
Line up no later than 3p.m.

Graduates are required to be lined up no later than 3p.m. in Leffler Chapel. Please be aware that graduates who are not in line at 3p.m. on Commencement day may not be able to process with the rest of the graduating class.

After Commencement

Update Your Contact Information with Alumni Relations

After Commencement, all graduates are asked to provide the College with updated contact information via our Alumni Website. If you have questions, please contact the Office of Alumni Relations at 1-800-877-2604 or alumni@etown.edu.

Visit the Office of Career Services' Website

The Office of Career Services provides career support to students and alumni. If you have questions, please contact them at 717-361-1206 or careerservices@etown.edu.