Things to Do Before Graduating
Commencement is right around the corner for many students! After years of hard work, dedication, and growth, your student is about to reach an incredible milestone. While this season is exciting and worth celebrating, there are a few important tasks your student should complete before they walk across the stage as a new college graduate.
Take Care of Any Outstanding Business
Encourage your student to log in to Eagle Online and review their student account
for any remaining fees. Even small charges, like printing fees or parking tickets,
must be resolved to receive their diploma. Make sure their balance is fully clear
before graduation day.
Present Their Challenge Coin
At freshman convocation, each student receives a Challenge Coin from President Oldham
with the expectation that they will eventually give it to the faculty or staff member
who made the greatest impact on their time at Tech. Students are encouraged to write
a note of appreciation to accompany the coin. If your student can’t find their coin,
they’ll receive an email to their Tech account with instructions for requesting a
replacement.
Thank Their Professors
Even though students present only one challenge coin, a sincere thank-you note or
conversation with other influential professors can be incredibly meaningful. This
is also a perfect moment for students to talk to faculty about potential letters of
recommendation or references for job applications.
Pick Up Their Cap and Gown
If your student missed Senior Salute in March, they can still pick up their regalia
at the University Store. They can also purchase stoles, a diploma frame, a class ring,
or Tech alumni gear to celebrate this achievement.
Update and Polish Their Résumé
If the job search is just beginning, their résumé will be one of the first things
employers see. Encourage your student to meet with the Center for Career Development
for a professional review. This is also a great chance for you to look it over and
reflect on everything they’ve accomplished, another proud moment!
Practice Interview Skills
Professional interviews can be very different from school-related interviews. Help
your student prepare for unexpected or challenging questions by practicing together.
For additional guidance or mock interviews, they can visit the Center for Career Development.
Review Their Social Media Presence
Many employers now check social media before making hiring decisions. It’s perfectly
fine for students to keep their college memories online, but they should ensure their
accounts reflect an image they’d be comfortable sharing with future employers (or
grandparents!). Encourage them to review posts, tags, comments, and pages they’ve
engaged with.
Update Their Contact Information
If your student used their Tech email address on applications or accounts, remind
them that access may end after graduation. Encourage them to switch to a professional
personal email, ideally one that includes their full name and avoids excessive numbers
or creative handles. If they need help, the Center for Career Development can provide
guidance.
Stay Connected with Tech
Tech is now your student’s alma mater. Encourage them to stay engaged as an alum.
The alumni association sends monthly updates featuring events, accomplishments, and
campus highlights, helping graduates stay connected long after they leave campus.
Celebrate This Huge Milestone
Graduating college is a major life transition and a tremendous achievement. While
job applications and future planning are important, take time to celebrate your student,
their journey, and everything they’ve accomplished. Remind them how proud you are
and encourage them to be proud of themselves, too.
<INTERVIEW WITH ALEX CALLIS OFF CAMPUS HOUSING IN COOKEVILLE>