So you think your?re on the right path to graduation. You have signed up for the correct classes and, more importantly, passed them. And CasperWeb shows that you have X amount of units left before you reach the required amount to graduate. But unfortunately, degrees are not granted automatically when students complete their degree requirements. In the nature of Sacramento State politics, one must apply for graduation.

These ever so popular applications are available from the Admissions and Records Counter in Lassen Hall. There are exceptions to picking up graduation applications. Some majors such as Business Administration, Civil Engineering and Child Development must obtain their graduation applications from their department offices. Once you obtain the application, the real work begins. First and foremost, completely fill out the form. Then you will need to have the chair from your major department sign it. If you have a minor, you must also have the chair of that department sign the application.

After tracking down the chair signatures, the waiting continues?this time in a line.

Although you have completed the tedious task of completing your application to graduate, you now have to pay the school more money to review the application. It does not matter that, as a student, you?ve been paying tuition for the past four to six or eight years while you have been working on the goal of graduation. Wait in line at the Student Financial Services Center where they will be happy to collect $27.50 for your graduation application and diploma fee.

We are getting closer now?at least now the word “diploma” is being used.

After you submit the appropriate fees, you can then return the completed application to the Admissions and Records counter. But the waiting continues. The Degree Evaluation Office will complete a degree audit showing any remaining requirements and will mail the results to you.

Have I mentioned that this application must be filed almost two semesters prior to your actual graduation date? For example, if you intend to graduate next Spring 2003, your graduation application filing period is March 4, 2002 to September 20, 2002. I recommend you file sooner rather than later, because the sooner you receive your evaluation results the easier it will be to plan your future schedules.

Once your application has been filed and accepted, there is still more work to do. During the semester of your graduation, you need to sign up with the dean?s office of your college to tell them you will be attending the graduation ceremony and the number of guests you plan to invite. After all the hard work of passing classes and successfully filing your application to graduate, you?ve earned the privilege to attend the ceremony.

Do not forget to purchase your cap and gown from the Associated Students, Inc. Business Office on the third floor of the University Union. This is another one of those outfits you will only wear once, but you should splurge. Once again, pat yourself on the back, you have worked hard to get to this point. If you would like your family and friends to know about all of the hard work you have done, make sure you purchase graduation announcements. Announcements are an investment; the more you send out, the more money that comes back through the mail.

Finally, make sure you pass your classes for the last semester and remember to show up for your graduation ceremony. This is one presentation you do not want to be late for.

E-mail Crystal Clark at [email protected]. We promise there will be no red tape.

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