Graduation Week Prep & Packing Checklist: Everything You Need to Know
- Paradise Rodriguez-Bordeaux
- May 14
- 3 min read
Graduation week is one of the most exciting (and hectic!) milestones in any student’s journey. Between final exams, family visits, and making sure your tassel is on the correct side, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why we put together this ultimate checklist — part prep guide, part packing list — to help you stay organized and confident all week long.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Whether you’re walking across the stage or just soaking in the moment, here’s what to double-check before the big day:
Graduation Prep Checklist
1. Wrap Up Academic & Admin To-Do’s
Before you celebrate, make sure all loose ends are tied up:
Confirm your final grades and degree completion status
Pay any remaining tuition or fees
Order your transcripts (especially if you need them for jobs or grad school)
Check how your name will appear on your diploma
RSVP to the graduation ceremony and any department or honors events
Schedule and attend any mandatory exit counseling (for student loans)
2. Get Tickets and Coordinate Events
Graduation week gets busy fast—don’t leave your loved ones out of the loop:
Reserve or pick up guest tickets early
Send a full schedule to family and friends
RSVP to all relevant receptions, dinners, or photo ops
Book reservations for any post-ceremony celebrations
Double-check parking, accessibility, and weather conditions
3. Secure Your Regalia
The gown may be one-size-fits-most, but it still takes a little prep:
Pick up your cap, gown, hood, and any cords or stoles
Steam your gown or pack a wrinkle spray
Bring pins, clips, or safety pins to secure your hood
Choose comfortable shoes that still look great in photos
If you’re decorating your cap, check your school’s guidelines
Graduation Week Packing List
Whether you're traveling back to campus or staying local, here’s what to bring for the week.
🔹 The Essentials
Cap, gown, hood, stole, tassel — the full regalia
Dress clothes (plus a backup outfit — just in case)
Comfortable walking shoes for long ceremonies and campus strolls
Weather-ready gear: umbrella, jacket, or sunhat
Small clutch, crossbody, or secure bag for your essentials
Phone charger and portable battery
Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated — seriously)
🔹 Toiletries & Personal Care
Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant
Hairbrush, pins, styling tools
Makeup (if wearing), face wipes, tissues
Any medications or first-aid supplies
🔹 Nice-to-Haves
Camera or tripod for capturing memories
Lint roller, wrinkle release spray
Thank-you cards for mentors, professors, or friends
Printed schedule or event pass
Resume or portfolio (especially if networking)
Celebratory touches: champagne, confetti, banner
💡 Pro Tips for a Smooth Graduation Week
Try on everything in advance to avoid surprises (yes, even the cap!)
Hydrate and snack, especially if there’s a lot of waiting around
Take a quiet moment for yourself before the chaos — reflect, breathe, and enjoy
Get someone to help you take photos early in the day, when your outfit is still fresh
Celebrate the Journey
You made it — really, you did that. Whether your next step is a job, a break, or a bold new chapter, take a moment to appreciate how far you’ve come. Graduation isn’t just about the ceremony — it’s a chance to celebrate growth, resilience, and everything you’ve built along the way.
Now, go cross that stage with confidence. You’re more than ready.
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About the Author:
Paradise Rodriguez-Bordeaux
🌎Global Business Strategist: Building Your Business To Sustainable Profits
🌟Empowerment Mentor | Philanthropist
A Paradise Company / Paradise Rodriguez-Bordeaux Inc.
best-selling author, entrepreneur, and thought leader.
Paradise Rodríguez-Bordeaux, 2022 Human Rights Activist and the 2023 Innovative Leadership Awards recipient, says,
"Sustainability is the bare minimum."
As an author, coach, and mental health advocate, she is a passionate advocate for those who have faced adversity and discrimination in life. She has been a philanthropist for more than 15 years, giving back to her community by supporting organizations that provide solutions for poverty alleviation and social justice. Her work as an innovator in business solutions led to the founding of... Learn More
"We need to consistently produce effectively efficient solutions.
This world, the communities, it's all of our responsibility.
Leaders HAVE to lead."''
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