Are Gowns Still Required for College Graduations? An SEO-Optimized Guide
The age-old tradition of wearing academic gowns at college graduations remains a significant part of the ceremony, even with the modernization of higher education.
Colleges and Gowns: An Overview
Most all colleges and universities in the United States require students to wear caps and gowns during the graduation ceremony. This tradition dates back to the 13th century and continues to be an integral part of the commencement experience. Typically, graduates wear the gowns over their regular street clothes, allowing them to change into their preferred attire after the ceremony.
High Schools and the Gown Tradition
It's not just colleges that adhere to this tradition. Many high schools also require graduates to wear gowns during their ceremonies. This is traditionally a sign of the culmination of their high school journey. However, there is a notable difference in some high schools where female graduates are sometimes asked to wear skirts over the gowns. This can often be surprising to graduates, as it may seem unnecessary in a world where gender-neutral attire is becoming more common. Despite this, the gowns themselves remain a symbol of achievement and pride for the graduates.
The International Perspective
In the United Kingdom, the tradition of wearing gowns for university convocations is even more entrenched. It is compulsory in almost all universities, and graduates who cannot attend the convocation can still have their degrees confirmed in absentia. This demonstrates the cultural and educational significance of academic attire in the UK.
Personal Accounts and Recent Trends
To give you a more personal insight into the current state of academic gowns, I reached out to some family members who have recently participated in these ceremonies. My daughter graduated from Monmouth College in 2017, and my son graduated from SIU-Carbondale with his JD that same weekend. Both of them wore caps and gowns, and I've since seen similar images from various commencement ceremonies, all of which included graduates wearing these regalia.
It's worth noting that academic gowns are typically rented, and graduates often opt to purchase items like the tassels on the caps or other small items as souvenirs. This approach not only makes the process more affordable but also ensures that the gowns can be reused by others.
Faculty's Role in Academic Gowns
While students are required to wear caps and gowns during graduation ceremonies, faculty members often participate in the ceremony in full academic regalia. However, it's not uncommon for faculty to attend other ceremonies without donning their gowns, depending on the nature of the event.
Conclusion
In summary, while there may be some variations in the specific requirements and traditions, the use of academic gowns remains a significant part of college and high school graduations. This tradition not only preserves a centuries-old custom but also symbolizes the achievement and hard work that graduates have put in. Whether it's a cap and gown at a high school graduation or a full academic gown at a college ceremony, the significance of this attire remains undiminished.
For those interested in learning more about academic regalia, graduation traditions, or simply curious about the details of commencement ceremonies, I've included additional resources at the end of this article. Whether you're preparing for your own graduation or simply interested in the history of academic attire, there's plenty to explore and discover.