Authorities at USF recently placed an ad in the student newspaper and sent letters asking graduates to keep their enthusiasm in check. The students are being asked not to stroll or march during the ceremony and also they were informed taking selfies is prohibited.
Graduates of the University of South Florida are eagerly preparing for their upcoming ceremony. However authorities at USF recently placed an ad in the student newspaper and sent letters out asking graduates to keep their enthusiasm in check.
Inappropriate behavior is the term used in the notes. Delving into the specifics, the students are being asked while on stage not to stroll, step or march and were also informed taking selfies is prohibited.
Of course, snapping selfies is a typical activity during any joyous event. In this case, the students have plenty to be excited about, as they’ll finally be able to receive their hard earned diplomas and meet face to face with president Judy Genshaft.
USF assistant vice president and dean for students, Michael A. Freeman detailed the decision stating ‘We want students to think about the dignity of the ceremony. It's supposed to be exciting, but it's a serious academic ceremony.’
He also pointed out that on-stage selfies unfairly hold up the ceremony, forcing other students to wait to receive their diplomas. Seniors who choose to defy the respectful rules may face disciplinary action and have their diplomas withheld.
The selfie ban pertains to the stage ceremony. Offstage, students are more than welcome to snap pictures of themselves.