Unraveling the common threads in a century of graduation speeches, we delve into the wisdom imparted by countless speakers. Discover the four universal tips echoed across time and space, shaping the final academic advice for graduates worldwide.
Steve Jobs popularized the viral commencement address
In 2005, he reminded the graduating class of Stanford University that he had never graduated from college, and told them three stories about his life
- Graduation speeches, long viewed as the burdensome interruption before diplomas were granted and mortar boards were tossed, have since become big business
- Kurt Vonnegut, Ann Patchett, Carl Hiaasen, J.K. Rowling, etc.
Make mistakes
Don’t be afraid to fail. Being embarrassed when you mess up is part of the human experience.
- The world doesn’t care how many times you fall down, as long as it’s one fewer than the number of times you get back up.”
- Aaron Sorkin at Syracuse University, 2013
Be kind
Work hard, be kind, and amazing things will happen
- Empathy and kindness are the true signs of emotional intelligence
- Try to be kinder
- Dream, work, fail, and smile are as good a foursome of American identity today as I know.
Dream big
It is easier to make progress on mega-ambitious dreams
- The best people want to work the big challenges
- Living well and living fully is more important than living longer
- Graduates, we need you
- We need you to shape the future of technology
- Your perspective and lived experience will make our country stronger
About the author
Bruce Feiler is the author of seven New York Times bestsellers, including The Secrets of Happy Families and Council of Dads, both of which became the subject of TED Talks.
Work hard
Do what you believe is great work.
- And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it.”
- Steve Jobs at Stanford University, 2005
