What side do you wear tassel before graduation? This is a question that often puzzles students as they prepare for their big day. The tassel, a symbol of achievement and the transition from student to graduate, is traditionally worn on the left side before graduation. However, the debate over whether to wear it on the left or right side has sparked a lively discussion among graduates and educators alike.
Graduation is a significant milestone in a student’s life, marking the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. The tassel, a small, decorative ribbon attached to the cap, plays a crucial role in this ceremony. It is a symbol of the student’s journey, representing the completion of their academic pursuits and the beginning of a new chapter.
The traditional practice of wearing the tassel on the left side before graduation has its roots in the early 20th century. During this time, students were taught to read and write from left to right. As a result, the left side became associated with the dominant hand, and thus, the side where the tassel should be worn. This practice was further solidified by the American Psychological Association (APA), which recommended that the tassel be worn on the left side.
However, in recent years, some students and educators have questioned this tradition. They argue that the left-side rule is arbitrary and that there is no logical reason to adhere to it. In fact, many graduates have chosen to wear their tassels on the right side, defying the traditional practice. This has led to a growing debate on whether the tassel should be worn on the left or right side before graduation.
Proponents of the left-side rule argue that it is a long-standing tradition that should be respected. They believe that the tassel’s placement on the left side is a symbol of the student’s journey, starting with the left side of the brain, which is associated with logic and reasoning. By wearing the tassel on the left side, students are acknowledging their academic achievements and the logical progression of their education.
On the other hand, opponents of the left-side rule argue that it is outdated and unnecessary. They believe that the tassel’s placement should be a personal choice, reflecting the individual’s preferences and beliefs. They point out that the left-side rule is not universally accepted and that there is no evidence to suggest that wearing the tassel on the right side would diminish the significance of the graduation ceremony.
Ultimately, the decision of what side to wear the tassel before graduation is a matter of personal preference. While the left-side rule is a traditional practice, it is not a strict requirement. Graduates should feel free to make their own choice, whether they choose to follow the tradition or defy it. After all, graduation is a celebration of individual achievements and the beginning of a new journey, and the tassel is just one of the many symbols that mark this significant milestone.
