<p>I can’t believe I’m already starting to think about this (seems like we were just doing college tours yesterday), but it occurred to me that it’s not too soon to be making hotel reservations for graduation. That got me wondering about the process. D has always stored her stuff over the summer, so we’ve never done the whole move-out thing. I don’t know if anyone looking at this forum has had a kid graduate from AU, but I’d love to know about the timing. Do they have to move out as soon as the ceremony is over? (It would be nice to go out to celebrate and not have to worry about packing up the car until the next day.) Is there some organization and assistance for senior move-out like there is for freshman move-in? (D lives in Nebraska.) Are there any other related activities that we would be attending besides the actual graduation? (And how many tissues will I need when that kid who struggled with ADHD, a learning disability and depression is handed that diploma, on time, and with honors??? So proud of her!)</p>
<p>I can not answer any of your questions as I have a freshman, but I just wanted to tell you it was so nice to read your post. Your daughter has obviously fought hard to overcome many obstacles and I know the road for you has not been easy either. I can feel your pride and I wish your daughter continued good health and happiness.</p>
<p>Thank you Jankie–that was very sweet of you.</p>
<p>MommaJ,</p>
<p>If our student’s graduation is like the ones we attended for my two older boys, there may also be departmental receptions or ceremonies.</p>
<p>My senior lives in an apartment off campus so move out is not going to be a problem for us. If your daughter still lives in university housing, you could probably contact the housing department about how your dilemma is usually handled–they probably have a policy or procedure for this because it is a situation they face each year. If an immediate move out is required, would it be possible for your daughter to do what she needs to do for move out prior to graduation so that she --and you-- can relax and enjoy?</p>
<p>MommaJ,</p>
<p>My daughter just graduated this past May so I may be able to pass on some info. There are a few more events than the actual graduation. We attended the honors convocation which was on a Friday afternoon (maybe 1PM) at that huge United Methodist Church across from school. It was a lovely event and felt quite personal as few students are able to graduate with honors. We received a bound book with a synopsis of every student’s Capstone project. The students were also announced individually and received really nice medals which they wear at the graduation ceremony. There was also a baccalaurate event that evening along with a cocktail reception. My daughter didn’t want to attend either.</p>
<p>My daughter graduated that Sunday afternoon and again a nice event. We parked at the Bender center and took photos after the event in the gardens right outside the center. They also take photos of each student as they are coming up onto the stage and when they are getting their diplomas while shaking the president’s hand. They were available for purchase a few weeks after the event and came out nice.</p>
<p>My daughter was in an apartment off campus so I can’t help with the move out thing. I will tell you that they start sending out info via email to the students after winter break. They also publish the whole agenda online as it gets closer. There were a few other small events that some folks were invited to. Keep an eye on the website and ask your daughter about events. My daughter didn’t think they were important so we didn’t know about some things(: Each school graduates separately so that is probably where you need to start with your planning. It is possible you could spend three days (fri-sun) in DC.</p>
<p>Good luck and best wishes to your daughter.</p>
<p>Thanks Hokiefan, that was really helpful. The honors ceremony sounds very special. Looks like we’ll be staying in DC for a few days. (CC is still wonky–your answer appears to have been posted the day before I posted my question–very psychic of you!)</p>
<p>Congratulations to you and your daughter MommaJ! Truly an accomplishment!</p>