Yes, we can get diplomas faster in '09
The Collegian Weekly The opinion of The Collegian editorial staff
Issue date: 1/22/09 Section: Opinion
Graduation season is quickly approaching - but if it keeps with the trend, diploma distribution will inevitably take a few months. The Collegian reported today ("Some '08 grads still wait for diplomas," News) that most of the diplomas for Hillsdale College's class of 2008 were mailed on Oct. 23 - more than five months after the actual commencement services.
Some 2008 graduates, though, still haven't seen their diplomas yet, and instead found themselves puzzled (and frustrated) to learn they hadn't actually graduated.
The registrar's office does their best to help students work out the kinks barring their reception of a diploma, but it doesn't change the fact that diplomas have tangible, critical implications in new graduates' job hunts. When students graduate, they expect to receive their completed degree. And potential employers expect their prospective hires to have one.
Miscommunication happens. But it shouldn't keep happening over hard-earned diplomas.
Commencement happens every year. It's not new, although this year, it seems the new printing company contributed to the diploma delay. But overall, it takes a curiously (and frustratingly) long time to procure the coveted collegiate document. And it shouldn't.
With the cushion of eight incomplete credits that the college allows students to still walk at commencement, it makes guaranteeing a diploma on graduation day difficult.
Now is the time, though, for everyone to organize and prepare for commencement, and the subsequent diploma distribution.
So, professors, turn in grades, and students, make sure you have them. If there's an incomplete, get it taken care of. And the registrar's office offers an easy way to ensure this - senior audits. But seniors, you're accountable here. Get in for your audits - Mom shouldn't have to hold your hand and walk you to the appointment. Know exactly where you are when May rolls around… and don't wait until April 29 to figure everything out.
Some 2008 graduates, though, still haven't seen their diplomas yet, and instead found themselves puzzled (and frustrated) to learn they hadn't actually graduated.
The registrar's office does their best to help students work out the kinks barring their reception of a diploma, but it doesn't change the fact that diplomas have tangible, critical implications in new graduates' job hunts. When students graduate, they expect to receive their completed degree. And potential employers expect their prospective hires to have one.
Miscommunication happens. But it shouldn't keep happening over hard-earned diplomas.
Commencement happens every year. It's not new, although this year, it seems the new printing company contributed to the diploma delay. But overall, it takes a curiously (and frustratingly) long time to procure the coveted collegiate document. And it shouldn't.
With the cushion of eight incomplete credits that the college allows students to still walk at commencement, it makes guaranteeing a diploma on graduation day difficult.
Now is the time, though, for everyone to organize and prepare for commencement, and the subsequent diploma distribution.
So, professors, turn in grades, and students, make sure you have them. If there's an incomplete, get it taken care of. And the registrar's office offers an easy way to ensure this - senior audits. But seniors, you're accountable here. Get in for your audits - Mom shouldn't have to hold your hand and walk you to the appointment. Know exactly where you are when May rolls around… and don't wait until April 29 to figure everything out.
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