End of November and beginning of December is always a busy period at the University of Malta, with a number of graduations happening on the daily at both the Msida and Valletta campuses. It’s a happy day to look forward to for many graduates, but there are some things you need to know if you’re wearing your cap and gown this year.
1. The cap saga
While wearing the cap is what makes the whole experience, if you’ve got curly hair, we’re warning you from now – that ain’t gonna hold. You’ll be tilting your head at weird angles to balance it all night. #BeenThereDoneThat
2. That sash
If your sash begins to slide off your shoulders, you might need to pull what is known as an 'eagle'. Lift those arms up in the hopes of lifting that sash high enough to at least not trip in it. I’ve seen it being done… it works.
3. Speech after speech
It’s a special day, and Uni likes to commemorate it with speeches from student organisations, student reps and members of the University. You’ve got a good 30 to 40 minutes of hearing a number of people talk before the moment of truth comes along. It will be worth it though, we promise.
4. Tick tock
No, not the app. There’s a lot of time waiting around until your name is called to line-up and be checked (attire-wise) and given a little nudge to head up those stairs. Your hands might get tired from all the clapping, but everyone loves being cheered on, so keep at it.
5. Name pronunciation
Ooof, this is a big one. If you’ve got a difficult name to pronounce, don’t bother expecting the correct pronunciation. Well ma mmorrux il-boghod as we say in Maltese, even Marie was pronounced wrongly as MAAARI. I pity all the, er, very modern-named kids in this day and age.
6. You’ll be smashed the next day
Probably the most anticipated day following graduation: the BUSCADE! It’s the one day when it’s socially accepted to be piss drunk in public. And bonus: no one will question it, knowing you’re celebrating such a huge milestone in your life. #Passthebooze
Congratulations to all 2019 graduates!