Who wears stoles at graduation? This question often arises among students, parents, and even graduates themselves. Stoles, traditionally associated with academic regalia, have become a significant part of graduation ceremonies across various institutions. But why do some graduates choose to wear them, and what do they symbolize?
Graduation stoles are typically worn around the shoulders and are adorned with various colors and symbols that represent the wearer’s achievements, affiliations, and aspirations. While the tradition of wearing stoles dates back to medieval times, their significance in modern graduation ceremonies has evolved over the years.
One of the primary reasons why graduates choose to wear stoles is to showcase their academic and extracurricular achievements. Each stole is often designed with specific colors that correspond to different majors or degrees. For instance, a graduate in the field of education might wear a stole with a green sash, while a student in engineering could don a stole with a blue sash. This visual representation allows attendees to quickly identify a graduate’s field of study and accomplishments.
In addition to academic achievements, stoles also serve as a symbol of the graduate’s involvement in various organizations and clubs. Many colleges and universities have specific colors associated with their fraternities, sororities, honor societies, and other student organizations. By wearing these colors, graduates can display their membership and dedication to these groups.
Another reason why stoles are worn at graduation is to honor cultural heritage and religious beliefs. Many graduates choose to wear stoles that reflect their cultural background or religious affiliation. For example, a graduate of Indian descent might wear a stole with traditional Indian patterns, while a Muslim graduate might opt for a stole with Islamic motifs. This practice allows graduates to celebrate their diverse identities and the values that have shaped them.
Moreover, stoles serve as a symbol of unity and shared experiences among graduates. As they walk across the stage to receive their degrees, graduates often hold their stoles together, symbolizing their camaraderie and the bonds they have formed during their time at the institution. This gesture reinforces the idea that graduation is not just an individual achievement but a collective celebration of the entire class’s accomplishments.
Despite the various reasons for wearing stoles at graduation, some may question the necessity of these traditional garments in the modern era. Critics argue that stoles can be seen as outdated and irrelevant in today’s fast-paced world. However, proponents of the tradition believe that stoles hold a unique value that goes beyond their aesthetic appeal. They serve as a tangible reminder of the graduate’s journey, the hard work they have put in, and the support they have received from family, friends, and mentors.
In conclusion, who wears stoles at graduation? The answer is diverse, encompassing graduates from various backgrounds and achievements. Stoles have become an integral part of graduation ceremonies, symbolizing academic excellence, cultural heritage, and the bonds formed during one’s college years. While opinions on the relevance of stoles may vary, there is no denying their significance in celebrating the achievements of graduates and the collective journey they have undertaken.
