Seniors got a jump on graduation on Tuesday as Texas Wesleyan hosted its first Grad Kickoff event.

Held at Lou’s Place, the event gave seniors a chance to order their caps, gowns, and class ring and purchase tickets for graduation. There were also booths with information about Wesleyan alumni programs and post-graduation careers.

Executive academic administrator Amber Coronado said feedback from students and faculty led to the idea of the kickoff.

“There was a call for better distribution, students wanted their information sooner,” Coronado said. “They wanted a place where they could come and all their graduation stuff was in one room.”

Coronado also said that attendees were reminded to apply for graduation and, if necessary, a degree audit. Information was provided about graduation programs, and students could also sign up for the robing and hooding ceremonies.

 Senior exercise science major Matthew Hexter said he saw a flyer advertising the Kickoff and wanted to check it out. A graduate assistant for the Wesleyan baseball team, he has a lot on his plate this semester, and the event helped him have one less thing to worry about.

“I wanted to get everything done and in check so I don’t have to worry about it for the rest of the semester,” Hexter said.

Senior business major Jordan Boone went to the Kickoff to sign up for his cap and gown, possibly to buy a class ring, and look into the alumni organization.

He was impressed by how easy it was to get everything done at the same time.

“It’s more convenient and everything is here and I’m able to fill everything out and be on my way,” Boone said.