# Mastering the Graduation Cap: A Comprehensive Guide to Wearing Your Academic Regalia
The graduation ceremony is a pivotal moment, a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and intellectual growth. Central to this สําคัญ event is the academic regalia, and no piece is perhaps as iconic or as frequently misunderstood as the graduation cap, or “mortarboard.” While seemingly straightforward, understanding the proper way to wear your graduation cap ensures you not only look the part but also adhere to tradition and respect the significance of the occasion. This guide will walk you through the nuances of donning your cap, from understanding its components to mastering its fit, ensuring you step across that stage with confidence and style.
The graduation cap, officially known as a mortarboard, is a square, flat-shaped cap with a tassel attached to a central button or tassel pin. Its origins can be traced back to the medieval universities of Europe, symbolizing the square shape of a book and representing the wisdom and knowledge gained by the scholar. The tassel’s position signifies the degree earned, a tradition that adds another layer of meaning to this significant academic symbol.
| Category | Information |
| :—————- | :———————————————– |
| **Name** | Mortarboard (Graduation Cap) |
| **Components** | Square board, crown, tassel, button/pin |
| **Symbolism** | Square represents a book, knowledge, wisdom |
| **Tassel Position**| Indicates degree; right for Bachelor’s, left for Master’s/Doctoral |
| **Earliest Use** | Medieval Universities (12th-13th Century) |
| **Authentic Reference** | [https://www.collegeunion.org/Graduation-Facts.html](https://www.collegeunion.org/Graduation-Facts.html) |
## Understanding the Anatomy of Your Graduation Cap
Before you wear it, it’s helpful to know the different parts of your graduation cap. The main component is the flat, square board, which gives the mortarboard its name. Attached to this board is the crown, which fits over your head. At the center of the board, you’ll find a button or a pin to which the tassel is attached.
### The Significance of the Tassel
The tassel is more than just a decorative element; it’s a marker of your academic achievement. For bachelor’s degree candidates, the tassel typically begins on the right side and is moved to the left side upon completion of the ceremony. For master’s and doctoral degrees, the tassel is often worn on the left side throughout the ceremony. Always confirm the specific traditions of your institution, as there can be variations.
## How to Properly Wear Your Graduation Cap
Wearing a graduation cap correctly involves a few key steps to ensure it sits comfortably and looks appropriate.
### Achieving the Perfect Fit
1. **Measure Your Head:** If possible, measure the circumference of your head where the cap will rest. Most graduation caps come in standard sizes, but an accurate measurement can help ensure a snug fit.
2. **Placement:** Position the cap so that the square board is parallel to the floor. It should sit level on your head, not tilted to one side. The crown should fit snugly around your head without being uncomfortably tight.
3. **Securing the Cap:** Many graduation caps come with an elastic band inside the crown for a better fit. If your cap feels loose, you can use bobby pins to secure it discreetly to your hair. Slide the bobby pins through the inner band of the cap and into your hair.
#### Tip for Those with Fuller Hair
If you have thick or voluminous hair, consider braiding your hair or creating a low bun to provide a flatter surface for the cap to rest on. This can help prevent the cap from slipping.
### The Tassel’s Journey
As mentioned, the tassel’s placement is significant. Students earning a bachelor’s degree will typically wear the tassel on the right side *before* the ceremony officially begins. During the ceremony, often after a specific pronouncement by the presiding official, all graduates move their tassels to the left. Master’s and doctoral candidates usually wear their tassels on the left from the outset.
The mortarboard’s design is said to be inspired by the square cap worn by scholars in medieval times, symbolizing the wisdom and distinction of academic achievement.
## Common Mistakes to Avoid
* **Wearing the Cap Backwards:** Ensure the crown is positioned correctly around your head, with the square board sitting flat and parallel to the ground.
* **Tilted Cap:** A tilted cap can appear careless. Strive for a level, balanced look.
* **Loose Cap:** A cap that is too loose may fall off during a significant moment, which can be both embarrassing and disruptive. Use bobby pins if necessary.
* **Incorrect Tassel Placement:** Pay attention to the established tradition for tassel placement based on your degree level.
### Creative Solutions for Cap Security
Beyond bobby pins, some graduates opt for specialized graduation cap accessories, such as decorative headbands with built-in clips or even Velcro strips that can be adhered to both the cap and a headband for a more robust hold.
## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
**Q1: Can I decorate my graduation cap?**
A1: Generally, yes, but this is highly dependent on your institution’s policy. Many universities allow cap decoration, especially for undergraduate ceremonies, as a way for students to express their individuality. However, always check your school’s specific guidelines regarding decoration to ensure compliance.
**Q2: How do I know which tassel to use?**
A2: Your tassel will typically be provided with your cap and gown. The color of the tassel often corresponds to the color of your academic discipline (e.g., blue for education, gold for philosophy, brown for fine arts). Your institution will have a guide detailing these colors.
**Q3: What if my graduation cap doesn’t fit well?**
A3: If your cap is too large, use bobby pins to secure it firmly to your hair. If it’s too small and causing discomfort, you may need to contact your regalia provider to see if an exchange is possible, though this is less common.
The tradition of the tassel being moved from right to left is a symbolic act, signifying the transition from student to graduate, from the pursuit of knowledge to the application of it.
## Conclusion: A Symbol of Achievement
The graduation cap, or mortarboard, is a powerful symbol of academic accomplishment. By understanding its history, components, and proper wear, you can ensure that this integral part of your academic regalia adds to, rather than detracts from, your graduation day experience. Wear it with pride, knowing it represents the culmination of your educational journey.
