So you think you’re ready to graduate? Think again!!! For those of us who plan on graduating in May, August or December the time is quickly approaching. There are several things you need to do to make sure that you are ready when that time comes. If you fail to do these things, you may not get to skip around the Elam Center, degree in hand, and get the heck out of here when you are supposed to.

The University Handbook offers a section on requirements for a Bachelor’s degree, but don’t be fooled; there is a lot more to it than that. For starters, it says nothing about applying for a diploma.

I would like to offer you a list of things you need to do whether you plan on graduating this semester, next semester or ever, for that matter.

The first thing you might want to do is check out http://www.utm.edu/capp . At this site you can get an idea of the classes that you have taken and the classes that you lack. This is not in any way official, so remember that.

If you have everything, that’s a start. Go to the office of the registrar. Here you need to have them place senior standing hold on your account.

For some reason, you have to have a hold put on before you can apply. Then apply for senior standing through the UTM Web site on Banner. To be safe, do this at the Registrar’s office, they’ll help you through it.

After applying for senior standing, the Registrar’s office will send a copy similar to what you found on the Web site I mentioned before.

The difference is that this will be official and be sent to your department or adviser. You need to do this before you register for your final semester. It helps. I promise.

While at the Registrar’s office, you can ask if there are any tests that you need to take prior to graduation. This is something that has to be done. Different degrees require different tests, so don’t rely on your roommate for this information.

At the beginning of your final semester, you will need to apply for a diploma. This will also need to be done at the Registrar’s office.

You should be able to do it online, but may encounter the same problems with the holds as you did with applying for senior standing. Do yourself a favor and ask if there is anything else you need to do before you graduate, while you are there. They are very helpful.

It is of dire importance to check all of your information and to make sure that it is correct. Incorrect information will inevitably cause much unneeded stress It is also a good idea to keep in constant contact with your adviser throughout your last two semesters.

They help students who are trying to graduate each semester and have a pretty good idea of what you need.

Also, remember the final touch. Blue jeans and a t-shirt are not exactly appropriate for graduation ceremonies. Go by the UTM Bookstore in the University Center and purchase a camp and gown. Be sure to allow plenty of time for it to get here and make sure it fits.