The Citadel Military College Graduation

Hey friends! Is anyone familiar with what the graduation experience is like at The Citadel Military College? I’m trying to picture what it's like in terms of traditions, length of the ceremony, events leading up to it? Any graduates here who could spill the details? Thanks!

While I'm not personally a graduate of The Citadel, I can share details based on general information available.

The Citadel's graduation is indeed steeped in military tradition, with several unique features that make it quite memorable. The event typically takes place over a span of several days, culminating in the actual commencement ceremony.

In the days leading up to graduation, The Citadel hosts special events like the Long Gray Line parade in which graduating seniors march in their final parade. This is a historical and meaningful tradition at the school, where the graduating cadets pass the review in front of the underclassmen, a symbolic transition of leadership.

Another significant ceremony is the baccalaureate service, a religious service usually held on the eve of commencement where the graduates, their families, and faculty come together. It is often seen as a solemn and reflective event.

As for the commencement ceremony itself, it usually lasts for a few hours. What differentiates The Citadel's graduation from others is that instead of simply walking across the stage to receive their diplomas, the graduates march onto the stage to the sound of bagpipes, which adds a unique military feel to the proceedings.

The graduates, now turned alumni, are also given a diploma, the class ring and the shako, the formal hat used during parades—which is usually tossed in the air in celebration.

Of course, due to evolving safety regulations or other restrictions, some details or traditions might change. So, to get the most accurate and updated information, it may be best to contact the school in the months/weeks leading up to the graduation date.