Regalia is displayed at the CSUDH bookstore. Photo by Evelyn Rodriguez.

By Evelyn Rodriguez, Staff Writer.

The pandemic took over everyone’s lives for the past two years. Students graduating from K-12 and college didn’t receive a proper graduation ceremony, due to social distancing restrictions. Last year, California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH) combined the class of 2020 with the class of 2021 and hosted a commencement ceremony on campus with limited attendees to comply with social distancing guidelines that were in effect at the time.

“In terms of how I feel, it’s a bittersweet moment. I am grateful to have this opportunity because it’s something that not only I have worked really hard for but my family as well” said Valerie Sanchez, a human services student major. “It’s definitely a rollercoaster of emotions, but I am grateful, happy, and excited about having the opportunity to walk the stage.”

Seniors now prepare to finish their Spring 2022 semester and anticipate walking the stage in front of their family and friends. A traditional graduation ceremony is happening for students. 

“We are taking on commencement full steam ahead like we did before COVID-19,” said Marilyn McPoland, the Director of Ceremonies and Events at CSUDH.

Over the course of two days, a total of six ceremonies will be hosted at the Dignity Health Sports Park Tennis Stadium. All ceremonies will be taking place either on Friday, May 20, or Saturday, May 21. The commencement times and schedules are based on majors and whether you are an undergraduate or graduate student. 

According to McPoland no tickets will be given to graduating students. Instead, the Commencement will be open on a first come, first serve basis, while also following the guidelines implemented by the Dignity Health venue.

A two-day commencement fair will be held on Feb. 28 and March 1; during this time the bookstore will be hosting its annual Commencement Fair from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

“All regalia will be available at this time,” said Richard Dorsey, the Store Manager for the bookstore. 

Another option students have to purchase items is online via the Herff-Jones website, which offers regalia packages and other items like class rings, announcements, and frames. The cap and gown bundles are now available for shipping. However, orders that are being picked up at the CSUDH bookstore will not be available until April 18.

Students can look forward to a series of Commencement 101 workshops that will take place on campus to allow students to ask general questions and also to have knowledge of what they should expect for the big day. If students aren’t able to attend the Commencement 101 workshops, they can view them on the CSUDH webpage as the sessions will be recorded in-house and uploaded.

Students who plan on walking the stage can start registering for Commencement starting Feb. 9 through March 6 in their CSUDH student portal. 

According to Kim Larson, the Assistant Director of Ceremonies and events, students should remember that registering for graduation is different from registering for Commencement.

Congratulations class of 2022!