Finishing School: Graduating to the Next Level

Most students are now preparing, or have just completed, one of the most fulfilling stages of their lives—Graduation Day. As this momentous occasion marks a successful achievement of an era, it also heralds the beginning of a new one.

As some students move on to the next level of education, others are gearing up to enter the workforce—their first step toward financial independence. To help them land a job after graduation, Joeven R. Castro, Student Development Director of Far Eastern University and a Freelance Leadership and Communication Competence Trainer imparts these tips:

Apply for the job that complements your strengths. According to Castro said, “A fresh graduate must match his or her competencies and interests with the desired position. Apply in jobs relevant to actual training.”

Thoroughly prepare for the job interview. Because job interviews are the company’s doorstep screening, Castro believes that responses shouldn’t be impromptu. “Anticipate interview questions and prepare responses. An applicant can think of actual examples or situations that can exhibit his or her competencies before the interview.” Because the interview confirms what is written on the resume, make sure that your bio-data highlights the outputs and training connected with the skills the job requires.

When you land the job, always frame each experience in the context of experience. “The real world of work is a place to learn, network, and to be tough. Colleagues may assist or ‘grill’ you. Learn from every experience, either good or bad, because this can contribute to your professional and psychosocial wellbeing,” Castro shares. He also encourages fresh graduates to set priorities so as not to be overwhelmed with work. “When you are willing to learn and are determined, the kind-hearted will readily assist you,” Castro added.

In the meantime, live in the moment and savor the moment of graduation. To celebrate your special day, we’ve compiled some bits of trivia on this landmark event.

Mortarboard. Church luminaries first wore this traditional graduation headgear in the 16th century. These were called mortarboards for of its similarity to a masonry tool. In the 19th century, the tassels were added and worn on the right side. During graduation rites, it is moved to the left when the candidate receives his degree.
Toga. The graduation gowns used today are inspired from long gowns of scholars during the middle ages. Back then, the gowns effectively staved off the cold in study halls. Graduation gown traditions took off in the 12th and 13th centuries, along with the opening of universities.
Diplomas. Originally, diplomas were written in ink on paper-thin parchment made of sheepskin, rolled and tied with a ribbon.

College Ring/Class ring. Rings worn by the alumni and alumnae to commemorate their graduation. It was in 1835 when the first ever class ring was created for the United States Military Academy at West Point.

Bachelor’s Degree. Bachelor comes from the Latin words bacca which means “a berry” and laureus for “the bay laurel.” During the Renaissance Age, laurel branches filled with berries were used to decorate the heads of graduates with completed degrees.

Pomp and Circumstance. The famous familiar tune played during the graduation march is entitled “Pomp and Circumstance,” a military march composed by Sir Edward Elgar back in 1901. When Sir Edward was invited at the Yale University’s Graduation in 1905 to receive an honorary doctorate degree, the New Haven Symphony Orchestra played his now famous piece to honor their guest.

To all the 2015 graduates, we wish you the best! Congratulations!