Graduation is one of the most important milestones in life. It’s a time to celebrate hard work, dedication, and the next chapter of your life. Part of this special occasion is wearing the cap and gown, which symbolizes academic achievement. But there’s one small detail that many graduates wonder about – what side does the tassel go on?
This question may seem simple, but the placement of the tassel has symbolic meaning. Let’s dive into this topic to understand why it matters, how to wear it properly, and when to move it.
The Significance Of The Tassel
Before we get into the details of tassel placement, it’s important to understand the meaning behind the tassel itself. A tassel is more than just a decoration for your graduation cap; it represents academic success and transition. The tassel tradition dates back centuries and is rooted in academic culture.
By wearing a tassel, graduates signal their readiness to step into the next phase of their lives. The movement of the tassel from one side to the other is a part of this transition and is often done during the graduation ceremony to symbolize a shift in your academic status.
What Side Does The Tassel Go On Before Graduation?
When you first put on your cap for the graduation ceremony, the tassel should be placed on the right side of the cap. This is true for most educational institutions, whether you are graduating from high school, college, or a graduate program. The right-side placement indicates that you are still a candidate for graduation.
At this stage, you have not yet officially graduated, so the tassel’s position on the right signifies that you are about to cross the threshold into a new phase of life. Think of it as a visual marker that you’re about to accomplish something significant.
When Do You Move The Tassel?
During the graduation ceremony, there comes a moment when all eyes are on you and your fellow graduates. This is the moment when the tassel is moved from the right side to the left side of your cap.
Typically, the movement of the tassel happens after you have received your diploma or after the keynote speaker declares that you have officially graduated. In many cases, the speaker or principal will direct the entire class to move their tassels at the same time, which is usually a highly anticipated part of the ceremony.
The act of moving the tassel symbolizes that you have completed your studies and are now an official graduate. It marks the completion of your hard work and the beginning of a new journey in life.
Why Move The Tassel From Right To Left?
The tradition of moving the tassel from right to left has been around for a long time, but you may be wondering why this specific movement is important. The right side signifies the time before you graduate when you are still a student. By moving the tassel to the left side, you are signifying that you are now an alumnus or graduate.
Some people also believe that this tradition may have a historical link to European customs, where graduates would wear hoods to symbolize their level of education. Today, the tassel movement has taken on a similar role in graduation ceremonies around the world.
Tassel Placement For Different Degrees
It’s important to note that the placement of the tassel can vary depending on the level of education you are completing. Here’s a quick guide for tassel placement based on the type of degree:
- High School Graduation: Tassel starts on the right and is moved to the left once you graduate.
- College (Undergraduate): The tassel also starts on the right and is moved to the left after graduation.
- Master’s Degree: For those earning a master’s degree, the tassel is usually worn on the left from the beginning of the ceremony and remains on the left. This is because they have already earned an undergraduate degree and the tassel has already been moved.
- Doctoral Degree: Similar to master’s degrees, doctoral candidates typically wear the tassel on the left side of their cap throughout the entire ceremony, as they have already earned previous degrees.
Be sure to check with your specific school or institution to confirm their particular traditions or rules, but these guidelines apply to most ceremonies.
What Happens After The Ceremony?
Once the ceremony is over and you have officially moved your tassel from the right to the left, you may be wondering what to do with it. Some graduates like to keep their tassel as a memento of their special day. It’s common to hang the tassel on a rearview mirror, display it in a shadow box, or keep it as part of a framed photo of your graduation.
In some cases, schools may provide special tassels with your school colors or other symbols that represent your academic achievements. For instance, students graduating with honors may receive a different color tassel to signify their outstanding performance.
What About Graduates Who Don’t Move The Tassel?
While most graduates participate in the tassel movement tradition, there are a few cases where the tassel may not be moved. This could be because the institution doesn’t follow this custom or because the graduate is receiving a degree at a different level where the tassel is already placed on the left side. However, this is uncommon, and most graduation ceremonies will include the tassel movement as a part of the event.
Special Tips For Graduation Day
Here are a few quick tips to ensure your graduation day goes smoothly, especially when it comes to the cap and tassel:
- Secure Your Cap: Graduation caps can sometimes be a bit tricky to keep in place, especially during outdoor ceremonies. Consider using bobby pins or hair clips to secure it.
- Keep the Tassel in Place: Make sure your tassel is securely attached to your cap to avoid any embarrassing moments during the ceremony. You don’t want it flying off when you move it!
- Coordinate with Your Class: If your school encourages the entire class to move the tassel at once, make sure you pay attention to the moment. It’s a collective celebration of your achievement.
- Cherish the Moment: Graduation day goes by quickly, so take a moment to enjoy the process. Moving the tassel may seem small, but it’s a powerful symbol of your hard work and perseverance.
Conclusion
The tassel is more than just a small decoration on your graduation cap – it’s a meaningful symbol of your academic journey. Moving the tassel from right to left marks the transition from student to graduate, a moment of pride and achievement. Whether you’re graduating from high school, college, or earning a higher degree, understanding the tradition behind the tassel helps you appreciate its significance.
