Every year, New College of Florida graduates walk across the lawn to get their diplomas—but they’re not wearing caps and gowns. The long-running tradition at this brainy liberal-arts institution is for students to show off their independent spirit and originality by dressing up in all sorts of wild costumes. Some may reflect their ruling passions and secret fantasies; others are just plain nuts.

Last May, photographer Philippe Diederich took his camera to the ceremony and captured the spirit of New College’s Class of 2006.

Ben Haber A sociology major, Haber dressed "sort of like a circus ringleader." Post-grad plans: "Go to New York City and think about my options."

Erica Fey "I'm the queen bee," said Fey, who majored in Hispanic language and culture. Future plans: "Make and sell hula hoops across the country."

Michelle Josette Krasowski "I'm an alchemist...people wear pointed hats and turbans to concentrate magnetic energy," said Krasowski. After graduation: "I want to be a real librarian."

Sam Davidson Wearing a painted tux, this sociology major said, "My impulses were super-formal and super-naked."

Marina Williams An art major, Williams has a whole fashion line "inspired by taking formal menswear and creating feminine attire." Up next: "Taking the art world by storm."

Holly Herrick This French lit/gender studies major said she chose a mermaid costume "because New College transformed me." After college: "I want to work in film."

Eva Gutierrez Of her outfit, humanities major Gutierrez said, "It was just a last-minute thing—more is more." Future plans: "Go on a road trip. I'm not sure where yet."