ÐÒ¸£±¦µ¼º½

Skip Navigation

UMGC Stateside | Adelphi | December 12–15 Winter Commencement 2024

Guide to Grad Walk

What Is the UMGC Grad Walk?

Grad Walk is a unique and intimate in-person commencement experience where UMGC graduates are center stage and receive individual recognition—while their guests enjoy a front-row view!

After meeting up with your guests, your name will be called as you walk across UMGC’s commencement stage in regalia, take photos, and meet university leaders. Your family members and friends cheer you on from a reserved viewing area near the stage.

You can also commemorate your achievements in a special Celebration Zone, meet UMGC faculty and Alumni Association representatives, and purchase ÐÒ¸£±¦µ¼º½ apparel, gear, and other mementos. You and your guests can also take photos and selfies at photo stations.

What to Know About Grad Walk

  • Grad Walk will be held at the College Park Marriott Hotel & Conference Center, 3501 University Boulevard East, Adelphi, MD 20783.
  • Watch our to learn more about the experience!
  • We recommend registering well in advance to reserve your preferred date and time.
  • To have the best experience, we suggest that each graduate bring no more than six guests to celebrate their achievement.
  • A cap and gown are required for participation. Visit to order your cap and gown no later than November 19,  2024.
  • Complimentary parking is available. Look for on-site signage and staff members for guidance. Carpooling is strongly encouraged.
  • Your Grad Walk experience is expected to run approximately one hour from check-in, to your big moment on stage, to photo stations and the Celebration Zone, and finally, your exit.
  • Floral arrangements, ÐÒ¸£±¦µ¼º½ apparel, and other commemorative gifts will be available for purchase.
  • Need help? Just email UMGC Commencement Services anytime at commencement@umgc.edu.  

Grad Walk Check-In Process and Individual Recognition

Step One: Arrive!

  • Wear your regalia and plan to arrive with your guests. Carpooling is strongly encouraged.
  • Please arrive at your confirmed appointment time.
  • Be sure to gather your entire party and proceed to the line where you will be directed to Check-in. You and your guests will stay together through the entire Grad Walk experience.

Step Two: Check In and Join Fellow Graduates in Line

  • When you arrive at Check-In, you will receive your name card.
  • You and your guests will be directed to the waiting area for the commencement stage.

Step Three: Enjoy Your Big Moment

  • You will hand your name card to the on-stage guide, and you will be cued to walk to the center of the stage as your name is announced.
  • You will receive a ÐÒ¸£±¦µ¼º½ diploma folder as you cross the stage and are congratulated by UMGC leadership.
  • Our professional photographer will capture the moment. Your guests will be positioned in a reserved viewing area near the stage and may take personal photos and videos.
  • After you cross the stage, you will proceed to the final professional photography station for one more photo of you holding your diploma folder.

Step Four: Visit the Alumni Celebration Zone

  • You and your group will continue your Grad Walk experience in the Celebration Zone, sponsored by the UMGC Alumni Association.
  • Take photos and selfies on UMGC’s beautiful grounds or at designated photo stations and share them on social media with #UMGCgrad!
 

Contact Us

Our helpful admissions advisors can help you choose an academic program to fit your career goals, estimate your transfer credits, and develop a plan for your education costs that fits your budget. If you’re a current ÐÒ¸£±¦µ¼º½ student, please visit the Help Center.

Personal Information
Contact Information
Additional Information
This field is required.
This field is required.
 

By submitting this form, you acknowledge that you intend to sign this form electronically and that your electronic signature is the equivalent of a handwritten signature, with all the same legal and binding effect. You are giving your express written consent without obligation for ÐÒ¸£±¦µ¼º½ to contact you regarding our educational programs and services using e-mail, phone, or text, including automated technology for calls and/or texts to the mobile number(s) provided. For more details, including how to opt out, read our privacy policy or contact an admissions advisor.

Please wait, your form is being submitted.