Don’t get me wrong; this is still a vibrant event complete with congratulatory handshakes. A keynote speaker, faculty member, and student speaker are invited to give speeches, and there is even a session for recognizing outstanding achievements.
However, the main focus of the ceremony is to allow students to reflect on their personal achievements and growth.
Dive in to gather more facts about baccalaureate ceremonies for seniors.
When Is The Baccalaureate Mass Held?
The baccalaureate mass is held a few days before the commencement ceremony. Usually, not many people attend the mass, although family members who cannot attend the graduation ceremony will typically be present during this service. This includes loved ones who cannot access commencement ceremony stadiums or gymnasiums because of physical limitations.
During the baccalaureate, there are fewer attendees, and this makes the space less challenging to maneuver. Additionally, the ceremony is not held in large stadiums but smaller, more accessible facilities.
Where Is the Baccalaureate Ceremony Held?
In the majority of cases, baccalaureate ceremonies are held in a church or house of worship. Remember that this is a non-denominational spiritual service, so the seniors are free to find whatever spiritual meaning that is in line with their personal beliefs.
In some schools, however, baccalaureate ceremonies have strong ties to specific religions. The whole idea of holding the event in a house of worship is to encourage the graduates and attendees to pause, live in the moment, and appreciate what is happening.
Basics of a Baccalaureate Ceremony
How the ceremony is conducted will depend on several variables. For instance, there are likely to be sermons and benediction sessions if a baccalaureate event occurs in a religious private school. Moreover, a few speakers are called upon to mention the accomplishments of the graduating class.
In a public school, the event usually features faculty and student speakers. Also, a class advisor is offered the chance to appreciate the accomplishments of the students. Whether the ceremony is held in a private or public school, musicians, vocalists, or student choirs always have performance sessions. This creates an ideal atmosphere for more self-reflection from both the graduates and attendees.
Another outstanding element of baccalaureate ceremonies is that all students, not just those on top of the class are appreciated. Those in the middle-of-the-pack also get a chance to showcase their talents by creating a meaningful speech to share during the event.
What Makes A Baccalaureate Different From A Commencement Ceremony?
Compared to commencement ceremonies, baccalaureate events are more serious. After all, they focus on reflection and understanding the milestones achieved.
Furthermore, the mass is also designed to give farewell to the graduates. Therefore, the speech sessions include motivational speakers urging the graduates to charge on and make their school, college, or university proud. Even though guests are welcome, this is an intimate ceremony that is only attended by those closest to the graduate.
Compelling Reasons to Attend a Baccalaureate Ceremony
If you have all intentions of attending the commencement ceremony, is it necessary to attend the baccalaureate mass?
Here are good reasons to purpose on attending the special event:-
- A Lovely & Stress-Free Experience
One of the main reasons you should be in attendance is that this is a more intimate ceremony. Baccalaureate mass is, in most cases, an emotional and moving experience for not just the students and their families, but also the faculty and administration.
You don’t have to worry about common concerns such as grades, job searches, and college admissions. These are issues you can worry about during the commencement ceremony. On this day, the experience is lovely for everyone because the main focus is on personal growth.
- Relaxed Atmosphere
The tone during a baccalaureate mass is calmer and quieter. Students and the attendees dress up for the event, and the graduates can, on this day, focus on their personal comfort. After all, they are now young adults, and a bit of freedom makes them feel “grown-up”.
- Make Memories
Thanks to the relaxed ambiance, the baccalaureate ceremony also offers an ideal opportunity to schedule family photography. Students, family, friends, and even the faculty do some serious heavy lifting to ensure they look their best. Instead of trying to beat the mad rush for photos during the commencement ceremony, you would have an ideal chance to create both photo albums and videos.
- Extend the Party
Typically, baccalaureate ceremonies take place on a weekday afternoon or evening. This is unlike commencement ceremonies that are almost always held during the weekend. You can invite friends and loved ones to celebrate your kid’s achievements before or after the mass. In this case, you are less likely to compete with as many parties as you would during the weekend.
Conclusion
While the commencement ceremony is the main event, the baccalaureate often offers a more intimate and meaningful experience for the parents and seniors. The day is structured to allow the attendees to reflect a little and feel proud of the moment.
In case you are still not certain whether to attend baccalaureate, attend the event anyway and thank me later.
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