Can I Wear My Greek Stole to Liberty University Graduation? A Guide to Navigating the Labyrinth of Regalia
Ah, graduation. The pinnacle of academic achievement, a time for celebration, and the perfect opportunity to wear a ridiculously large, itchy robe that makes you look like you’re about to perform a medieval play. But what about those precious stoles? Can you wear your Greek stole at Liberty University graduation?
The Short Answer:It depends.
The Long Answer: Get comfy, because this is going to be a wild ride.
First, let’s address the elephant in the room (or, more accurately, the giant ceremonial robe): Liberty University is a bit of a stickler for tradition. They’ve got a specific dress code for graduations, which is basically a fancy way of saying “wear what we tell you.” They even have a “Commencement Welcome Fair” where you can pick up your regalia and a whole bunch of other goodies.
Now, let’s talk about those stoles. While Liberty doesn’t explicitly forbid them, they’re not exactly encouraged either. Think of it this way: They’re like the uninvited guest at a party. They’re not technically breaking any rules, but they’re definitely not welcome.
Here’s the deal: The official graduation attire is military dress or Commencement regalia. That means a cap and gown, a hood (if you’re a Master’s or Doctoral student), and maybe some fancy cords for honors. Your Greek stole is not mentioned.
But, here’s where things get a little tricky: You’re part of a Greek organization, and you’ve probably spent the last four – or maybe even more – years proudly displaying those colors. You’ve gone through initiations, built friendships, and participated in countless events. Your stole is a symbol of your commitment and pride.
So, what are you supposed to do?
Here’s my advice:
- Talk to your chapter: The first step is to reach out to your chapter advisor or a trusted member. They might have some insights about past graduates and how Liberty has handled the situation. They might even have some unofficial guidelines within your organization.
- Email Liberty: Don’t be afraid to inquire directly with the university. They’re there to help you graduate, so they may be willing to clarify their stance. You might get a definitive answer, or you might get a polite but unhelpful response. But hey, at least you’ll know where you stand.
- Consider the context: Think about the ceremony itself. It’s a celebration of your achievements, your journey, and your future. While the stole might be a symbol of your past, it shouldn’t overshadow the moment. Do you want to be remembered for your stole, or for your accomplishments?
- Respect the rules: Ultimately, it’s your decision. But remember that Liberty University has a specific dress code for graduation, and they do expect you to follow it. If you choose to wear your stole, be prepared for potential consequences.
Here’s a thought: Maybe you could find a way to incorporate your Greek pride without breaking any rules. Consider wearing your Greek letters as a pin or brooch, or even finding a creative way to personalize your cap and gown with your colors.
Remember: Graduation is a significant milestone. You’ve worked hard, and you deserve to celebrate. Be proud of your achievements, and don’t let a bit of fabric detract from your big day!
And remember, even if you decide not to wear your stole, you can always take a celebratory photo with it after the ceremony. Your Greek pride will be immortalized in a picture, and you’ll still be able to show off your commitment to your fraternity or sorority.
So, there you have it, a detailed guide to wearing your Greek stole to Liberty University graduation. It’s not always clear-cut, but with a little communication and consideration, you can find a way to celebrate your accomplishments while staying true to yourself and respecting the university’s rules.
Now go forth and conquer those graduation ceremonies, and remember, your diploma is the real prize, not the fancy robe.
And if you’re still unsure about the whole stole thing, maybe just ask yourself: Would you wear your Greek stole to a job interview? Probably not. Just sayin’.