The tradition of turning the tassel is a time-honored ritual that marks a significant milestone in a person’s academic journey. It is a moment of great pride and accomplishment, symbolizing the transition from one phase of life to another. But have you ever wondered what people say when they turn the tassel? In this article, we will delve into the history and significance of this tradition, and explore the various phrases and quotes that people use to commemorate this special occasion.
A Brief History of the Tassel Tradition
The tradition of wearing a tassel on a graduation cap dates back to the 17th century, when it was a symbol of nobility and prestige. The tassel was originally made of gold or silver thread, and was worn by scholars and nobles as a mark of distinction. Over time, the tradition evolved, and the tassel became a standard feature of academic regalia.
In the United States, the tradition of turning the tassel was popularized in the mid-20th century, as a way to symbolize the transition from student to graduate. The tassel is typically worn on the right side of the cap, and is turned to the left side after the degree is conferred. This simple gesture is meant to signify the graduate’s new status, and is often accompanied by a sense of pride and accomplishment.
The Significance of Turning the Tassel
Turning the tassel is more than just a symbolic gesture – it is a rite of passage that marks a significant milestone in a person’s life. It represents the culmination of years of hard work and dedication, and is a testament to the graduate’s perseverance and determination.
For many people, turning the tassel is a moment of great emotional significance. It is a time to reflect on past achievements, and to look forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. It is also a time to celebrate with family and friends, and to mark the beginning of a new chapter in life.
What Do People Say When They Turn the Tassel?
So, what do people say when they turn the tassel? The answer, of course, is that it varies. Some people may choose to say a simple phrase, such as “I did it!” or “I’m done!” Others may opt for something more profound, such as a quote or a message of inspiration.
Here are a few examples of what people might say when they turn the tassel:
- “I’m proud of myself for making it through!”
- “I’m excited to start this new chapter in my life!”
- “I’m grateful for the support of my family and friends!”
- “I’m ready to take on the world!”
Some people may also choose to say a quote or phrase that is meaningful to them. For example:
- “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
- “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill
- “Don’t watch the clock; do what it does. Keep going.” – Sam Levenson
Popular Quotes and Phrases for Turning the Tassel
If you’re looking for inspiration for what to say when you turn the tassel, here are a few popular quotes and phrases that you might consider:
- “The best is yet to come.” – Robert Browning
- “Believe you can and you’re halfway there.” – Theodore Roosevelt
- “It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.” – Confucius
- “Success is not measured by what you accomplish, but by the opposition you have encountered, and the courage with which you have maintained the struggle against overwhelming odds.” – Orison Swett Marden
You could also consider saying a phrase that is meaningful to your personal journey, such as:
- “I did it, Mom and Dad!”
- “I’m proud to be a [Name of University] graduate!”
- “I’m ready to make a difference in the world!”
How to Choose What to Say When You Turn the Tassel
So, how do you choose what to say when you turn the tassel? Here are a few tips to consider:
- Think about what is meaningful to you. What inspires you? What motivates you?
- Consider your personal journey. What challenges have you overcome? What accomplishments are you most proud of?
- Keep it simple. You don’t need to say a lot – just a few words or a short phrase will do.
- Be sincere. Say something that comes from the heart, and that reflects your true feelings.
Examples of What to Say When You Turn the Tassel
Here are a few examples of what you might say when you turn the tassel:
- “I’m proud of myself for persevering through [challenge].”
- “I’m grateful for the support of my [family/friends/loved ones].”
- “I’m excited to start this new chapter in my life and to see what the future holds.”
- “I’m ready to take on new challenges and to make a difference in the world.”
You could also consider saying a phrase that is meaningful to your academic journey, such as:
- “I’m proud to have earned my degree in [field of study].”
- “I’m grateful for the opportunity to have studied at [Name of University].”
- “I’m excited to apply the knowledge and skills I’ve gained to my future career.”
Conclusion
Turning the tassel is a significant milestone in a person’s academic journey, and is a moment of great pride and accomplishment. Whether you choose to say a simple phrase or a more profound quote, the most important thing is to speak from the heart and to express your true feelings.
Remember, the tradition of turning the tassel is a time-honored ritual that marks a significant transition in life. It is a moment to reflect on past achievements, and to look forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. So, take a moment to savor the experience, and to enjoy the sense of pride and accomplishment that comes with it.
| Popular Tassel Turning Quotes | Author |
|---|---|
| The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. | Eleanor Roosevelt |
| Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts. | Winston Churchill |
| Don’t watch the clock; do what it does. Keep going. | Sam Levenson |
In conclusion, turning the tassel is a momentous occasion that marks a significant milestone in a person’s academic journey. Whether you choose to say a simple phrase or a more profound quote, the most important thing is to speak from the heart and to express your true feelings. So, take a moment to savor the experience, and to enjoy the sense of pride and accomplishment that comes with it.
What is the significance of turning the tassel during graduation ceremonies?
The act of turning the tassel is a symbolic tradition that marks a significant milestone in a student’s academic journey. It represents the transition from one phase of life to another, signifying the completion of a degree or diploma. This tradition is often accompanied by a sense of pride, accomplishment, and excitement for the future.
The tassel itself is usually made of a long, thin piece of fabric or thread, attached to a mortarboard or graduation cap. The color of the tassel often represents the field of study or the institution’s colors. When the tassel is turned, it is typically moved from one side of the cap to the other, signifying the student’s transition from student to graduate.
What is the origin of the tassel-turning tradition?
The tradition of turning the tassel is believed to have originated in the 17th century in Europe, where it was a common practice among academics to wear a tassel on their caps to signify their academic status. The tassel was often made of a specific color or material that represented the wearer’s field of study or institution.
Over time, the tradition was adopted by universities and colleges in the United States, where it evolved into the modern-day practice of turning the tassel during graduation ceremonies. Today, the tassel-turning tradition is an integral part of graduation ceremonies around the world, symbolizing the achievement and accomplishment of graduates.
What does the tassel represent in the context of graduation?
In the context of graduation, the tassel represents the student’s academic achievement and hard work. It symbolizes the completion of a degree or diploma and marks the transition from student to graduate. The tassel is often seen as a symbol of pride and accomplishment, representing the student’s dedication and perseverance throughout their academic journey.
The tassel also represents the student’s growth and development, both academically and personally. It signifies the student’s readiness to take on new challenges and pursue their goals and aspirations. In many cultures, the tassel is also seen as a symbol of good luck and prosperity, wishing the graduate success and happiness in their future endeavors.
How is the tassel typically turned during graduation ceremonies?
During graduation ceremonies, the tassel is typically turned by the graduate themselves, often at a specific moment designated by the ceremony’s proceedings. This moment is often accompanied by applause and cheers from the audience, as the graduate marks their transition from student to graduate.
The tassel is usually turned from the right side of the cap to the left side, although this may vary depending on the institution or tradition. In some cases, the tassel may be turned by a dignitary or official, such as the university president or a faculty member, as a way of conferring the degree or diploma.
What is the significance of the tassel’s color?
The color of the tassel often represents the field of study or the institution’s colors. For example, a graduate in the field of engineering may wear a tassel of a specific color, such as orange or yellow, while a graduate in the field of arts may wear a tassel of a different color, such as purple or pink.
The color of the tassel can also represent the institution’s colors or logo, signifying the graduate’s affiliation with the university or college. In some cases, the tassel may be made of a specific material or design, such as a gold or silver thread, to signify the graduate’s academic achievement or honors.
Can anyone participate in the tassel-turning tradition?
The tassel-turning tradition is typically reserved for graduates who have completed a degree or diploma program. However, some institutions may allow participants in other types of ceremonies, such as certificate programs or honors ceremonies, to participate in the tassel-turning tradition.
In general, the tassel-turning tradition is a way of recognizing and celebrating academic achievement, and is typically reserved for individuals who have completed a significant academic milestone. However, the specific rules and traditions surrounding the tassel-turning ceremony may vary depending on the institution or culture.
What happens to the tassel after the graduation ceremony?
After the graduation ceremony, the tassel is often kept by the graduate as a memento of their academic achievement. Many graduates choose to display their tassel in a frame or on a wall, as a reminder of their hard work and accomplishment.
In some cases, the tassel may be preserved and stored with other graduation memorabilia, such as the diploma or graduation cap. The tassel may also be passed down to future generations as a family heirloom, serving as a symbol of the graduate’s academic legacy.