She was a brilliant student but not a natural communicator. Being called upon to give the valedictorian speech at her graduation ceremony was a nightmare for her. “I can write down answers to tests� she said, “ But I simply don’t know what to say or how to say it�.

I asked her if she would have trouble speaking to her own friends about how she felt about graduating. She said “Oh no. I am delighted that the studying is over and at long last I am going to practise medicine. We have discussed this day late into the night, never believing it would really happenâ€�. Who had helped her most? I asked. “Oh my parents have been wonderful she said. They didn’t have much money but they worked very hard to help me and my tutors were always there when I needed them…â€�. “Did you like the college?â€� I pressed her. “Yes, I made so many friends there and I will miss them but I intend to keep in touchâ€�. “Had she any special memories?â€� I pressed. She smiled and remembered the first day she had been in theatre. She was afraid she was going to faint.

“Well you have almost written your own speechâ€� I told her. “It’s all about what college has meant for you and for your fellow students. Your speech should mention those who helped you and, of course, the friends you made and the experiences you had here. It should also speak about the opportunities you all have in the futureâ€�. You forgot one thing though. “What is tha?” she asked. “I think perhaps you should end with a good luck wish to your fellow students”, I suggested. She smiled and said “It’s really just like speaking to my family and friends, isn’t it?”. “That’s it”, I said. “No wonder you are the valedictioran”.

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Graduation Commencement Speeches.
I’ve been looking around for a few variations on these. I mean how many times can you say ‘reach for the stars’ ? Unsurprisingly there are few speakers who tell it as it is, ie: it’s going to be a hell of a struggle and statistically 10% of you will be dead in the next ten years. All the graduates want to hear is short, short, short. There is one ray of hope I came across. It’s from Dr Suess and it’s called, ‘Oh, the places You’ll Go’ http//www.mit.edu/people/adorai/seuss/seussboy.html’ - check it out.

It’s pretty cool and perhaps a work of genius. Would make a hell of a commencement speech though.

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