THERE comes a time when the only thing you have left to do at university is… graduate. And here’s a secret for you: graduating is awkward.
I’m not talking about becoming a graduate and entering the working world – I’m talking about the day of graduation. On my graduation, I was the first person to be called on stage. (How did that happen? My name starts with ‘T’. Alphabetically I’ve never been first in my life!) As a naturally fast walker, I'm certain I crossed the stage before they'd even said my surname. As a result, I have a really quite blurred graduation photo and everyone who followed me tried to match my speed. The graduation was over in about 60 minutes.
That was the most memorable thing about that day. Whether it was because I was nervously anticipating going up on stage (and hoping not to trip over) or because they were particularly uninspiring, I don’t remember any of the speakers. I don’t remember any inspiring words.
However, many graduation speeches are inspirational and uplifting. Whether it is given by a successful person from the world of business, entertainment or politics, I urge you to listen to your commencement speaker and heed their advice. In the meantime, here is a speech from Apple founder Steve Jobs to start you on your way.
