<p>Frankly, I would stay in the dorms during commencement weekend. That way you’re right on campus and you don’t have to deal with driving back and forth every time you want to change your clothes. You can also stay through Monday (Memorial Day) which will make things a bit more relaxing. It’s probably cheaper as well.</p>
<p>You probably won’t know the different receptions/activities that your daughter will have to attend until next April at the earliest. </p>
<p>My graduation weekend was pretty full – Cornell Tradition reception on Friday, followed by dinner with my faculty adviser and parents. On Saturday was convocation followed by a big open reception on the Arts Quad and then smaller receptions at night. I think I attended the Glee Club concert that night. On Sunday was obviously commencement and then afterward around ten of my closest friends and I organized a barbecue for our families down at Stewart Park which lasted until 6PM or so. </p>
<p>My parents didn’t leave until that Monday. I actually stayed in Ithaca until July that summer so I didn’t have to pack just then. A lot of students didn’t bother to pack up and leave until the Monday after Memorial Day, and I think those that did leave that Sunday after commencement regret not having a more drawn-out ‘goodbye’.</p>