Petition to Graduate by October 31

Students who plan to graduate on December 15 must complete the Petition to Graduate process by October 31. Statistics show that the best way for anyone to land a job in their chosen field is to finish college and earn a degree or certificate. In fact, students who complete their associate degree or certificate can expect to earn about $400,000 more in a lifetime than a high school graduate, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Graduation is one of the last important steps in a student's journey at Valley and a special way for them to be recognized for the hard work it took to achieve the degree. For job seekers, degree or certificate completion can be that critical step in gaining a desired position and for students completing a transfer plan, it may symbolize that they are half way to earning a bachelor's degree. In addition, it can help build a resume and secure employment while still in school.

On Oct. 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Texas Township Campus tower entrance and on Oct. 24 in the main lobby of Anna Whitten Hall, PTK members will host a signing event for students who are committed to graduating. Academic advisors and counselors will be on hand to assist students who want to check on their progress toward graduation. Students will also be encouraged to sign the I Commit to Graduate banner, a symbol to help participants stay focused and energized while completing their degrees. Cake will be served.

The commencement ceremony will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, December 15 at Western Michigan University's Miller Auditorium.