Prepare for the Big Day!
Make sure you're ready for Graduation! Prepare for your special day with everything you need to know for the ceremony, from purchasing your regalia and choosing the right attire to inviting guests and capturing the moment with photos. Find helpful information to ensure a smooth and memorable graduation experience or learn how to take part in separate affinity Recognition Ceremonies.
Regalia & Attire
Graduation caps & gowns are required to participate in the ceremony. Students are encouraged to decorate their caps to identify their degree program or transfer destination!
Regalia can be ordered in person at the MPC Bookstore prior to Graduation. A limited number of caps and gowns may be available the day of Graduation and can be purchased before the ceremony.
Students should wear clothing that is personally comfortable to them under their gown, business casual attire is recommended. Shoes with sharp and/or pointy heels are not permitted, as they may puncture the turf. If wearing heels, a block-style is recommended.
Graduates are expected to walk from the amphitheater to the stadium across rough terrain. Comfortable shoes are recommended. Accommodations will be made for any student with a physical disability, including those students requiring wheelchair access. The weather on the Monterey Peninsula fluctuates frequently. Jackets, blankets and an umbrella are recommended.
Information for Your Guests
- No tickets are necessary and there is no limit on the number of guests a student may invite. Seating is available on both sides of the football stadium. We are unable to reserve seats for people—all seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Parking is available at any parking lot designated for students. There will be signs directing graduates and guests to designated parking areas.
- Individuals with disabilities should park in any adjacent accessible parking spaces. Wheelchair access is readily available from Lot C. Wheelchair accessible seating is available above the press box bleachers on a first come, first serve basis. MPC staff are unable to assist in the transport of any guest.
Graduation Photography
Professional photography will be taken at the ceremony and photos will be available for you and your family members at no charge.
Live Stream Graduation
The Commencement Ceremony will be live streamed for your family members to enjoy even if they cannot attend the ceremony. The video will be embedded on this page the day of graduation.
Advisories
- Please leave valuables with family or guests—there will be no designated area at the ceremony where you may leave your valuables. If you choose to carry your cell phone or camera with you, please be advised that MPC is not responsible for the loss or damage to these or any other valuables.
- As a courtesy to your fellow graduates, please have your cell phone or any other electronic devices set to vibrate.
- Graduate seating is done by student preference, not alphabetical. Students are able to choose who they walk with when lining up in the processional line. Full details are provided during the ceremony rehearsal.
NOT ALLOWED ON CAMPUS DURING CEREMONY:
- Food. No food will be provided to the graduates. Please plan accordingly.
- Drinks other than water. Water is the only drink allowed and will be provided to the graduates.
- Chewing gum, confetti, birdseed, loose flower petals. No exceptions.
- Use or operation of drones.
- Thin / pointy high heels are not permitted on the football field. See attire.
Recognition Ceremonies
MPC hosts several affinity recognition ceremonies in addition to the main ceremony to honor student accomplishments. Complete the sign-up form if you're interested in participating in any of the below ceremonies.
- Departmental Recognition
Contact the Department Office Associated with your Degree Program
- Latino Recognition Ceremony
- Rainbow Recognition Ceremony — LGBTQIA+
- Rites of Passage Ceremony — African American Students
- Transfer Student Recognition Ceremony
Register to Join Our MPC Alumni Group
MPC would like to keep in touch with you as you move on to the next step of your education or career. Fill out the form below to stay in the loop with alumni activities and events. For more information, contact the MPC Foundation at (831) 655-5507.
Rites of Passage Ceremony
The Rites of Passage Ceremony honors and celebrates Black/African American students who have completed an Associate Degree, Certification, or are transferring to a Four-Year University. This event both recognizes student accomplishments and the community that supported them, while also marking the transition from their time at MPC to their future studies or professional endeavors.
Join us in this pre-commencement celebration that embraces African culture, customs, & traditions. Expect inspiring speakers, student recognition, musical selections, and the presentation of Kente Stoles, followed by a reception. The ceremony is free for all students, guests, and the community.
Kente Stole Significance: The Kente—a hand-woven, ceremonial cloth originating in Ghana—is rich with symbolism and visually represents several African principles. Through the presentation of the Kente Stole, we honor ancestral contributions and the support of each student’s "village" as they achieve their goals.
Accommodations: For disability-related needs such as mobility devices, service animals, communication access (sign language interpreter), or specific seating due to a disability-related need (anxiety, health concerns, etc.), please email ritesofpassage@mpc.edu.
Have questions or concerns? Contact us!