Frequently Asked Questions

1.) Where do I go once inside Minute Maid Park?
All graudates must report to the Atrium area, just inside the Atrium Entrance

2.) Where will I be sitting inside Minute Maid Park?
Graduates will be seated in the stands. Facing the stands, the College of Humanities and Social Sciences is first, followed by the Colleges of Business, and Science and Technology. Guest seating will be located on either side (to the right and left) of these two sections and on the Club Level above these sections.

3.) Why did I have to pay for parking? Why were some students able to park for free?
Everyone attending events at Minute Maid Park must pay to park. There is some metered parking around the Park that is free on Sunday's ONLY.

4.) Can I leave my purse in the robing area.
No. You are advised to take all valuables with you to your seat. Neither Minute Maid Park or UHD are liable for any losses.

5.) Can I leave during the ceremony?
No.

6.) How long does the ceremony last?
About 2 hours.

7.) Do you have an extra tassel/cap/robe?
The bookstore representatives will have a few caps, gowns and tassels available at their table near the right field entrance.

8.) When does formal check-in begin?
Check-in begins at 12PM just inside Atrium Entrance.

9.) What should I do with my name card?
It is critical that you hold on to the name card you receive during check in, DO NOT LOSE IT, carry it with you until you are asked for it on the field before you enter the stage to receive your scroll.

10.) Where do we get programs?
Programs are provided in the Student Robing Room, and at the Atrium Entrance.

11.) How will I know to go to the stage?
Following remarks by the UHD Regents, the UHD President and the keynote speech students will be instructed to stand one row at a time. You will be lined up on the field to the right of the stage. When your name is called proceed to the stage.

12.) Who should I follow when the procession begins.
Follow the person directly in front of you at all times.

13.) Where should my tassel be?
Before commencement, your tassel should be on your right. If you wish, AFTER you have received the commencement scroll, you may shift it from right to left.

14.) Which college goes first?
The College of Public Services goes first, followed by Humanities and Social Sciences, the College of Business, and Science & Technology.

15.) My family member needs special assistance (wheelchair, etc.) where can he/she sit?
Take the elevator from the concourse to the Club Level. There is plenty of wheelchair accessible in the stands and inside the Club Level.

16.) Is there a Coke machine nearby?
There are a few concession stands open in the park. They will be selling coffee and sodas.

17.) My daughter is graduating and she forgot her tassel, I have it here. May I bring it to her?
Contact one of the UHD Commencement Staff on duty.

18.) Where may my guests enter?
Right Field Entrance will be open for guests.

19.) What hotel may my guests stay in?

$79 PER NIGHT

Take advantage of Hyatt Regency Houston's special rate during graduation weekend!

Located only minutes away from the University of Houston Downtown, Hyatt offers excellent service, luxurious accommodations, fine dining in Atrium Restaurant and Spindletop Restaurant, numerous drink selections at Park Bar, and complimentary transportation to downtown attractions, including Minute Maid Park. Visit www.hyattregencyhouston.com and type in Group/Corporate number 91932 for your special graduation rate.

$72 PER NIGHT

The Marriott Courtyard in Downtown Houston (on the intersection of Main and Dallas) will be offering a "UHD Graduates" rate of $72 per night.  The Marriott Courtyard in Downtown Houston is also conveniently located right next to the Lite Rail system for easy travelling between destinations downtown.  Visit the Marriott Courtyard website for more information.