Commencement Speeches: A Student Perspective

David

3 min read

Post on May 16, 2025

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Commencement Speeches: A Student Perspective – More Than Just Words

Commencement. The word itself evokes a mix of emotions: excitement, anxiety, relief, and perhaps a touch of melancholy. But for many graduating students, the highlight (or lowlight, depending on the speaker) is the commencement speech. This year, let's delve into what students really think about these often-anticipated addresses. We'll explore the impact of memorable speeches, the pitfalls of less-than-stellar ones, and what students hope to gain from this pivotal moment.

Beyond the Banality: What Makes a Commencement Speech Memorable?

Forget the tired clichés about "following your dreams" and "embracing the unknown." Students crave authenticity and relevance. What resonates most are speeches that:

• Offer relatable anecdotes: Hearing stories from someone who's "been there" – faced similar struggles, overcome challenges – creates a powerful connection. The best speakers aren't necessarily famous; they're relatable.
• Provide actionable advice: While inspirational words are appreciated, students value practical guidance. Tips on navigating the job market, building resilience, or fostering meaningful relationships are far more impactful than generic platitudes.
• Embrace vulnerability: A speaker who acknowledges their own failures and insecurities builds trust and encourages self-acceptance. Honesty and humility are far more compelling than polished perfection.
• Offer a unique perspective: Students are hungry for fresh insights, unconventional thinking, and diverse voices. A speech that challenges norms and offers a new way of seeing the world is far more likely to leave a lasting impression.

Think back to some of the most celebrated commencement speeches: Steve Jobs' Stanford address, Oprah Winfrey's inspiring words, or even Michelle Obama's powerful messages. They all shared these common threads: authenticity, relatable experiences, and actionable advice.

The Flops: When Commencement Speeches Fall Flat

Conversely, some speeches miss the mark entirely. Students often find the following particularly frustrating:

• Overly generic advice: Repetitive pronouncements about "hard work" and "perseverance" without any concrete examples or context can feel dismissive and uninspiring.
• Lack of connection to the graduating class: A speech that doesn't acknowledge the unique experiences and challenges of the graduating class feels impersonal and out of touch.
• Excessive length and rambling: Students have limited attention spans, especially after a long ceremony. A concise and focused speech is far more effective than a lengthy, meandering one.
• Tone-deaf remarks: Inappropriate jokes or insensitive comments can quickly derail a speech and leave a lasting negative impression.

These pitfalls highlight the importance of careful preparation and a deep understanding of the audience.

The Lasting Impact: More Than Just a Moment

While the memories of a specific commencement speech might fade over time, the underlying message often endures. The best speeches serve as a powerful reminder of the potential within each graduate, inspiring them to pursue their goals with courage and determination. They provide a much-needed boost of confidence and hope as they embark on the next chapter of their lives.

This year, let’s hope for more speeches that resonate with the graduating class, offering genuine inspiration and practical guidance for the journey ahead. What are your experiences with commencement speeches? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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