What side does tassel go on before high school graduation? This question has been a topic of debate and confusion among students, parents, and educators alike. The tassel, a symbol of achievement and the transition from high school to higher education, is traditionally worn on the left side before graduation day. However, the reasons behind this tradition and the significance of the tassel’s placement are not widely known.
The tassel is a small, decorative object attached to the top of a graduate’s cap, known as the mortarboard. It is made of silk or a similar material and is adorned with a ribbon. The tassel is a symbol of the graduate’s academic achievements and the beginning of a new chapter in their life. The placement of the tassel on the left side before graduation is rooted in a long-standing tradition.
In the United States, the left side has historically been the side of the cap where the tassel is placed before graduation. This tradition dates back to the early 19th century when students would wear a square-shaped hat, known as a “mortarboard,” during their graduation ceremonies. The mortarboard was a symbol of the student’s academic achievements, and the tassel was attached to the left side of the hat.
The reason for placing the tassel on the left side is believed to be related to the Latin word “laurea,” which means “wreath.” In ancient Rome, laurel wreaths were awarded to winners of athletic competitions and scholars. The laurel wreath was worn on the left side of the head, as it was considered the dominant side for the Greeks and Romans. This tradition was adopted by universities in Europe and eventually made its way to the United States.
Another reason for placing the tassel on the left side is that it is the side of the head that is typically associated with the dominant hand. In most cultures, the left side of the body is considered the dominant side, and placing the tassel on the left side signifies the graduate’s readiness to take on new challenges and responsibilities.
As graduation day approaches, students often wonder whether they should wear the tassel on the left or right side. The answer is simple: before graduation, the tassel should be worn on the left side. This tradition is not only a symbol of the graduate’s academic achievements but also a reminder of the long-standing history and significance of the tassel’s placement.
In conclusion, the question of what side the tassel goes on before high school graduation is an interesting topic that has been debated for centuries. The tradition of placing the tassel on the left side is rooted in historical and cultural reasons, and it is an important symbol of the graduate’s achievements and the beginning of a new chapter in their life. As students prepare for their graduation ceremonies, it is essential to remember this tradition and wear the tassel on the correct side to honor the rich history behind this symbol of achievement.
