Graduate FAQ

Graduates on Parade is a unique and special opportunity to celebrate our Class of 2022 graduates on Friday, May 13. Parade starts at 10 a.m. Graduates must enter the route by 11 a.m. Please review our FAQs below for important information about participating in the parade.

Important: Graduates and guests may not park or leave their vehicles. The route will be lined by CSUSM Faculty and Staff only for the safety of all attending.

Frequenly Asked Questions

• Does the parade replace commencement?
   No. A commencement ceremony will take place in the following weekend. You can find more information on the Commencement Website.
• Can I decorate my vehicle?
  Yes! Participants are encouraged to decorate their vehicles (while complying with all California laws, of course). Student code of conduct applies to this event. No obscenities will be allowed. Faculty and staff would also appreciate seeing your name written somewhere on or within the vehicle to more easily recognize you. Keep in mind that your vehicle will be most visible from the passenger side along the parade route.
• Can I wear my cap and gown?
  Yes, but it is not required.
• Can I purchase a cap and gown on site?
  No but you can purchase one ahead of time on the the university store website.

Logistics

• What time is the parade?
   The parade will begin at 10 a.m. All graduates wishing to participate must enter the parade route by 11 a.m.
• Who can participate in the parade?
  Graduates from Fall 2021 and Spring 2022 are allowed to participate. Please RSVP online if you plan to attend.
• Do I need to RSVP if I plan to participate?
  Yes. Please RSVP online. The deadline to RSVP is Sunday, May 16 at midnight.
• What is the parade route?
  The parade route will begin on Craven Drive from Twin Oaks Valley Road. The exact parade route will be determined based on the number of participants who RSVP.
• Who will be along the parade route?
  CSUSM faculty and staff will be there to cheer you on – while following social distancing measures, wearing appropriate face coverings, and following strict event guidelines. Only employees will be allowed to line the parade route. The parade will be live streamed at csusm.edu/parade.
• Can my friends and/or family follow in another vehicle?
  No. Only one vehicle is allowed per graduate. Guests from the same household unit may join a graduate in their one vehicle. Safety laws still apply (ie: every passenger must be wearing a seatbelt).
• How long will the parade last?
  The estimated length of the parade will be determined by participation. Please complete the graduate participation form to let us know you will be coming. Graduates must enter the parade route by 11 a.m.
• Can I drive through the parade in a Limousine or RV?
   Limousines and RV’s are not recommended due to the sharp turns needed to make it through the parade route. Safety laws still apply (ie: every passenger must be wearing a seatbelt) regardless of the vehicle type.

Health and Safety

• Is it safe to participate in the parade?
   The safety of our students, faculty, staff and guests is our highest priority. We have coordinated with county health officials to ensure that all safety guidelines and regulations are followed
• Can I stop to take photos during the parade?
  No, participants must remain in their vehicle at all times.
• Can I stop to greet faculty or staff along the route?
  No. You must remain in your vehicle at all times and faculty/staff must maintain appropriate social distance from your vehicle.
• Are motorcycles, bicycles and/or golf carts allowed?
  No, it must be a vehicle.
• What if I want to participate but don’t have access to a vehicle?
  All participants must be in a vehicle and adhere to all California driving regulations, including the wearing of seatbelts.
• Do I have to wear a face covering while in my vehicle?
  Graduates and guests are not required to wear masks or face coverings while in their vehicle, although may do so. Per county regulations, faculty and staff standing along the parade route are required to wear face coverings. 
• Who is allowed in my vehicle?

  You can include whomever you'd like but must adhere to all California driving laws. Every person in the vehicle must have a fastened seatbelt. 

   

• Will restrooms be available?
  No. Graduates and their guests must remain in their vehicle at all times. 
• Can my family and friends stand along the parade route?
  No. Only university employees are allowed to stand along the parade route. Faculty and staff will maintain appropriate social distance and wear face coverings while standing along the route. A live stream of the parade will be available at csusm.edu/parade and a recording will be posted on the website later this month.
• Does the parade comply with health and safety regulations?
  Yes. We are coordinating with county health officials, who are guiding us in our efforts to host this event.
• What if I have other questions?
  Please email parade@csusm.edu.