A degree from Hogwarts?

One week from today I will be 'hooded' at commencement (first in a department ceremony and again at the larger University commencement). This involves a ceremony where our advisers place our PhD 'hood' over our head as we are awarded our degrees. As you know this has been a long time coming, graduate education is a wild and difficult journey.

Much to my delight when we arrived home from our trip to Boston my 'regalia' had arrived by post. Before even unpacking my luggage I tore into the box and dressed myself head to toe in this costume.

Check out the history of the academic regalia at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Academic_dress

Regarding PhD graduates:

"Doctoral robes are typically black, although some schools use robes in the school's colors. The Code calls for the outside shell of the hood (see, below) to remain black in that case, however. In general, doctoral gowns are similar to the gowns worn by bachelor's graduates, with the addition of three velvet bands on the sleeves and velvet facing running down the front of the gown. The Code calls for the gown trim to be either black or the color designated for the field of study in which the doctorate was earned (see Inter-Collegiate colors, below). However, it should be noted that in the case of the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), although it is awarded for study in any number of fields, the dark blue velvet of philosophy is always used regardless of the particular field studied. For example, if not choosing black trim, a Ph.D. in theology would wear velvet gown trim in dark blue, while a Doctor of Theology (Th.D.) would wear scarlet trim, if not choosing black. The robes have full sleeves, instead of the bell sleeves of the bachelor's gown. Some gowns expose a necktie or cravat when closed, while others take an almost cape-like form. It is designed to be worn open or closed in the front."

To get a good visual of what these 'costumes' look like think Hogwarts and Harry Potter. In fact, after I eagerly dressed myself in my special new outfit and ran out to show Trina, her first reaction was, "where is your wand? did you get your degree from Hogwars [school of wizadry]?" This is, without doubt, the fluffiest, puffiest outfit, er, costume, I have ever owned. I'm all about ritual and a dash of pomp and circumstance, but even I think this is a bit over the top. What do you think?

I honestly love this costume as it represents my journey, and because it was a gift from my Mom and John, making this an even more special experience. But I do acknowledge that there is a lot of hoopla goin' on in this outfit!! Here you can see the 'hood' draping down my back...sort of cool. But that hat, oh my that hat. I love, love love it! More to come next week after commencement and the associated celebrations....pictures galore I promise!