Frequently Asked Questions

For Students:

Q: When and where is the Sociology Commencement Ceremony?
A: The 2009 Sociology Commencement Ceremony will be held on Thursday, May 21, 1:45 p.m., at Zellerbach Auditorium. Students should arrive no later than 1:30 p.m.

Q: Approximately how long will the Commencement Ceremony take?
A: The ceremony will take about 2 hours, and will be followed by a reception.

Q: Will refreshments be provided at the reception?
A: Yes. Light refreshments: punch, cookies, and strawberries.

Q: How do I obtain my cap & gown?
A: Cap & gown rental is coordinated by the Graduation Department of the Cal Student Store. The Graduation Department can be reached at 510-642-9000 ext. 681.

Q: Who is eligible to attend the Commencement Ceremony?
A: All UC Berkeley students who are on the degree list for Spring, Summer, or Fall 2009 or who have graduated in Summer or Fall 2008 are welcome to participate in the Commencement Ceremony. All guests will need a ticket to enter Zellebach Auditorium.

Q: Who will be the student commencement speaker this year? How do I apply to be the speaker?
A: Each year we select one student to present the Sociology Undergraduate Address during the ceremony. Any graduating senior in sociology may apply to be the speaker. If interested, you should submit a typewritten draft (more than an outline) of your proposed speech to the Sociology Undergraduate Advising Office in Barrows Hall by Friday, April 24. The speech should be no longer than 5 minutes. The Chair of the Sociology Department reviews the proposals and makes the final selection. For additional information, please see an Undergraduate Advisor.

Q: How do I obtain tickets?
A: Beginning on April 13, graduating seniors may obtain 2 free tickets and purchase a limited number of additional tickets at the Sociology Front Desk in 410 Barrows Hall. For more information, please see here.

Q: My name is difficult to pronounce. What should I do?
A: On the 2009 Commencement Registration Form, students are asked to spell their name phonetically, so we can pronounce your name as accurately as possible.

For Guests:

Please see here for Parents/Guests FAQ.