So, it’s here. The day you’ve been dreaming about (and maybe dreading a little): Graduation Day. After years of caffeine-fuelled nights, stressful exams, and somehow surviving that one impossible group project, you’ve made it.
Before you step on stage to grab that hard-earned degree, here’s your quick guide to surviving graduation day — and making the most of every moment.
1. Stay Hydrated
Between the nerves, the heat under your gown, and possibly shedding a few emotional tears (we won’t judge), it's easy to get dehydrated. Bring a bottle of water with you — especially if you’re waiting around before the ceremony.
2. Secure Your Cap and Gown
You’d be surprised how many grads lose their caps to wind, awkward hugs, or poorly timed photo ops. Use hairpins, clips, or even a bit of double-sided tape if you have to. A flying cap and gown makes for a good story — but a bad photo.
3. Charge Your Devices
Graduation is all about the memories. Make sure your phone is fully charged (or bring a power bank) so you don’t miss a moment. You’ll want it for photos, videos, and maybe even a cheeky post-ceremony selfie.
4. Don’t Skip Breakfast
Nerves can ruin your appetite, but trust us —you don’t want to stand for hours on an empty stomach. Eat something small but solid before you leave home. Fainting on stage? Not the kind of attention you want.
5. Take It All In
This is your day. Your moment. Take a deep breath before you walk on that stage and look around. Whether you’re surrounded by family, friends, or walking solo — you did it. And that’s something to be proud of.
What Comes Next?
Graduation isn’t the end — it’s the start of your next chapter. Whether you’re moving to a new city, starting a job, or planning a well-earned gap year, the transition from student to real-world adult can be overwhelming.
Need help finding your next home, city guide, or advice for life after uni?
Check out StudentPad — your go-to platform for trusted student and graduate housing, tips, and everything in-between.
Did you find your accommodation through Studentpad?
We’d love to hear from you! Whether you found your dream place or just loved how easy the site was to use, tell us what made your experience great. Your feedback helps us continue improving for the next wave of students.
Drop us a message at team@studentpad.com — or send us a DM on socials. We’re always listening, and we genuinely love hearing your stories!
Final Words
Graduation day is more than just a ceremony —it’s a celebration of your resilience, growth, and all the ridiculous, wonderful memories you’ve made along the way.
Caps off to you, grad. Now go shake up the world!
If you are still looking for your Student and Post Grad accommodation head to the Studentpad search tools to find your university's accommodation search site to help you find your new student accommodation, then get searching for your off campus shared house, room, or apartment.
Post by Olivia MacLean (Marketing Executive at The Pad Group)
