Where is the event?
The event will take place at the Michigan Union in the Rogel Ballroom on the 2nd floor.
What time should I arrive?
Students and guests should arrive at 3pm when doors open. The ceremony will begin at 3:30pm.
Please plan ahead to find parking and consider the time it takes to walk to the Union.
Yes! All students who will participate need to RSVP as soon as possible and provide the number of guests. Individual guests do not need to RSVP.
Who is recognized at the ceremony?
All Fall 2023 (December), Winter 2024 (May), and Summer 2024 (August) graduates who are undergraduate Sociology majors.
Why am I not receiving ceremony information?
You need to Apply for Graduation (for May 2024 or August 2024) in Wolverine Access in order to appear on graduating student lists.
Cap and gown attire is strongly encouraged! Caps and gowns are sold at campus bookstores. Some students choose to decorate the top of their cap. White tassels are for BA degrees and yellow tassels are for BS degrees. Otherwise, please wear professional attire.
How many guests am I allowed to bring?
Depending on your unique family unit and support system, please aim to bring no more than 4 guests.
How will graduating students be recognized?
Your name will appear in the program and your name will be called out as you walk across the stage (please bring a 3"x5" notecard with your first and last name clearly printed so that we announce the correct name).
We will have a slideshow of graduating student pictures and messages on display before the event. Please RSVP and send your picture to socadvisor@umich.edu.
Will there be opportunities for pictures?
A professional photographer will document the event and photograph each graduate. We will share these pictures with graduates after the event. A step-and-repeat will be available with a Michigan Sociology backdrop, ring light, and fun props — feel free to use your phones and cameras!
Who will speak at the event?
We are looking for student speakers!
Would you like to address the Sociology Class of 2024 with a speech? Do you write poetry and perform spoken word? Would you like to lead a round of "Hail to the Victors"? Reach out to us at socadvisor@umich.edu with your speech, poem, or song idea.
Other speakers include our Chair, Elizabeth Armstrong, and Undergraduate Director, Erin Cech.
How is Commencement different from this event?
Commencement is a University-wide event that takes place at Michigan Stadium, usually the day after the department ceremony so you can wear your Sociology stole to The Big House! Students do not receive individual recognition at Commencement, i.e. they do not "walk." You should be able to expand your invitation list since Commencement is a larger event.
Hand over your name card at the podium, begin walking when your name is called out, exit the stage, pose for a professional photo, and then walk all the way around the room to return to your seat (we'll have ushers to guide you).
Students may email us at socadvisor@umich.edu!