Don't forget to thank your supporters

Whether you're the first in the family to receive your college degree or the tenth, your family shares in the pride of your accomplishment on this special day. Let them share in this milestone.

Importance of the ceremony

You're likely in one of two camps regarding the graduation ceremony — looking forward to the pomp-and-circumstances of this culmination of your time on campus or considering foregoing the event altogether, closing your college career upon that final, final exam. Consider the following in terms of your family members. The ceremony often serves the following purposes for them:

• A chance to express their pride of accomplishment for you
• A chance to feel their pride of accomplishment in themselves particularly as your parent, spouse or significant other
• A closure on their investment of time, money and support in this endeavor
• An opportunity to reminisce of their college experiences, your college experiences, and often your childhood experiences
• A chance to get together one more time before the time pressures after graduation kick-in

Saving the date

It likely goes without saying, but let your family know at least three months in advance of the specifics of the graduation ceremony — date, time and place are musts. Optional pluses for out-of-town guests include:

• Lodging recommendations
• Directions to and from the ceremony facilities
• Other Grad Week Events they might participate in
• Local attractions for a long weekend

Planning a recognition event for you AND your family

Whether it's a big or little event, take some time with family to celebrate. Thank those around you and to take a deep breath and kick back for a few minutes. Create a celebration that fits your style be it a brunch for your family and a few friends or a full-blown affair. Keep in mind, this is a time that both you AND your family get to pause for a few moments and let the accomplishment sink in!

Expressing your appreciation

You've likely expressed your appreciation for your family throughout your college experience, but here's a great time to take it that one step further. Consider the following.

• Personal notes can be more meaningful than anything. Don't relegate the Thank You Note to acknowledging gifts only. Instead, use them to express gratitude for all that's led up to this moment.
• Consider official school thank you products — appreciation certificates, gratitude pins, or stoles of gratitude. These products may vary from school-to-school but all help you express your thanks in a very personal but university-based way.
• Don't underestimate the power and emotion of other school-affiliated products during this time. Swing by the bookstore one last time and pick up an extra sweatshirt for those who helped you achieve this accomplishment.
• Express your personality and talents — use your artistic skills to do a rendering of a university building, cook a gourmet dinner or roll out your plan for that family summer vacation you've been thinking of taking for years. The ideas are endless.

Above all, take time to appreciate your accomplishment, soak in the pride of those around you and express your gratitude for all of the help.