Camosun’s annual grad ceremonies are coming up in June, and with a historic venue and hopping after-party planned, the event is a no-brainer for students ending their studies at the college.
More than 2,500 grads, faculty, and guests are expected at the college’s official convocation ceremonies June 19, taking place at the Royal Theatre downtown. An after-party, being planned by the student grad committee, is happening later that night at the Strathcona Hotel.
“The goal is to get more of our graduating students attending the ceremony, to celebrate this very important milestone in their career,” says Brooke Madley, events coordinator at Camosun student marketing and recruitment. “By hosting the Camosun Graduation at The Royal Theatre, this premiere venue, it will add to the importance of this memorable event.”
Students interested in attending the graduation ceremonies can RSVP online and will have access to a full range of grad ceremony services, including full regalia, photography, and flowers. Each grad will also have the option of receiving two free guest tickets for the ceremony.
Meanwhile, over at party central, the Strathcona Hotel after-party is sure to be a wild, fun, and possibly sloppy night. It’s also the first-ever official Camosun grad after-party. Tickets are available at the college’s bookstores for $10 (grads) or $15 (guests) and a Facebook page has been set up here.
“I’m very excited about the after party,” beams Madley. “We are expecting 700 graduates and guests, and so far tickets are going fast. This is going to be the place to party with your fellow graduates and friends on grad day, and I know I am definitely looking forward to it.”
The after party will feature a special performance by local alt-rockers Jets Overhead, their first show since last year’s Rifflandia festival. The band, who are finally getting a chance to support their new album, Boredom and Joy, say they are slightly nervous, but stoked to play for Camosun’s grads.
“We’ll be playing a selection of new songs that we’ve never played live before,” says lead singer Adam Kittredge. “But we’re excited, it’s always fun to play in our hometown and especially great to be playing a celebratory event such as this. Congratulations to all the grads!”
If the swanky new venue and wicked sounding after-party isn’t enough to convince Camosun students to attend grad, Madley stresses that missing out on the once-in-a-lifetime experience of grad is something you can never take back.
“Do it for your parents who want to see you cross that stage; do it to celebrate with your peers, to recognize the hours you spent in those late-night study groups and energy-drink-cramming sessions, and do it for yourself because you will regret it if you don’t,” says Madley. “Besides, what better things do you have to do on June 19?”
Email graduation@camosun.ca or call 250–370–4570 for more info on the daytime grad ceremonies or the after party.
“Besides, what better things do you have to do on June 19?”
Finals if you’re on the Quarter system.