how to write a university valedictorian speech

How to Write and Deliver a Memorable Graduation Speech: Tips, Examples, and Techniques

• The Speaker Lab
• March 7, 2024

Table of Contents

The goal of any graduation speech is to find words that capture the essence of years spent learning and growing. Today, we’ll guide you through that process and help you craft a memorable graduation speech . You’ll learn to weave gratitude with shared experiences, and balance humor with wisdom. We’ll even help you find quotes that strike a chord and deliver them in a way that resonates.

But that’s not all! Dive into proven strategies for public speaking, managing stage fright, and drawing inspiration from iconic commencement speeches. Discover how personal growth stories add depth to your message and explore themes that leave a lasting impact on your peers as they step forward into new beginnings.

Crafting Your Graduation Speech: A Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to marking the end of your high school or university journey, a graduation speech can capture the essence of this pivotal moment. But how do you start such an important address?

Opening with Impact

The first words of your graduation speech are crucial. They set the stage for what’s to come and grab your audience’s attention. Think about starting strong by sharing a personal anecdote that ties into the broader experience of your class or drawing from Steve Jobs’ Stanford University commencement speech , where he began with, “Today I want to tell you three stories from my life.” This technique instantly piques interest because it promises narratives that have shaped who you are.

An impactful opening also acknowledges shared experiences. Perhaps you could reflect on how moments in classrooms turned strangers into lifelong friends. Or for university commencements, consider touching upon those late-night study sessions that tested perseverance but ultimately led to academic achievements worth celebrating today.

Building the Body of Your Graduation Speech

In crafting the body content, intertwine lessons learned throughout high school years or during university courses with aspirations for what lies ahead. For instance, share how overcoming obstacles like balancing extracurricular activities and academics taught valuable time management skills.

To add depth, incorporate quotes from luminaries like Oprah Winfrey or draw parallels between classroom learnings and real-world applications. Dive deeper by discussing milestones achieved together as a graduating class and recognizing the hard work everyone put in to make it to this monumental occasion.

Concluding with Inspiration

Your conclusion should leave fellow graduates feeling inspired while helping them celebrate high school memories one last time—or honor those unforgettable college years if addressing higher education grads.

Closing remarks could include heartfelt gratitude towards teachers’ support and parental guidance. You might even crack a joke or two. It’s these personalized touches paired with universal truths that resonate most deeply as students step forward into new chapters post-graduation.

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Delivery Techniques for Confident Speaking

Standing in front of a crowd can turn even the most composed student into a bundle of nerves. But fear not, with some smart strategies, you’ll be able to channel your inner orator and deliver your graduation speech with confidence.

Practicing Your Graduation Speech

Becoming familiar with every word of your speech is key. Rehearse it out loud until the words feel like second nature. This practice does more than just help you remember what comes next; it lets you find the natural rhythm and pace of your delivery. Consider recording yourself to catch any quirks or stumbling blocks—you might be surprised at how much this helps refine your presentation.

A trick often overlooked is practicing in different environments. If possible, stand on the actual stage where you will deliver your commencement address. Familiarity breeds comfort, making that once daunting podium seem like an old friend when graduation day arrives.

Overcoming Nervousness and Stage Fright

Nervousness is normal but doesn’t let it dictate your performance. Before stepping up to speak, take deep breaths to steady yourself—a calm body encourages a calm mind. An effective method for easing anxiety is visualization. Imagine delivering each line perfectly and receiving an enthusiastic response from listeners—envisioning success can make it so.

Maintaining Eye Contact

The power of eye contact cannot be overstated. It connects speaker and listener on a personal level that amplifies engagement significantly. Scan across different sections of the audience periodically without lingering too long on any one individual.

Incorporate these techniques diligently when preparing for the big day. In doing so, they become part of muscle memory and help build confidence. With confidence and plenty of practice on your side, your graduation speech is sure to conclude to applause leaving you to celebrate yet another milestone achieved.

Analyzing Renowned Graduation Speeches for Inspiration

When crafting a commencement speech, it’s often helpful to look at the giants whose words have echoed through auditoriums and across campuses. Steve Jobs’ Stanford University Commencement Speech is a classic example of weaving life lessons into an address that connects deeply with graduates. Similarly, Oprah Winfrey’s Harvard University Commencement Address showed how stumbling blocks can become stepping stones if we learn from them.

Steve Jobs’ Storytelling Mastery

Jobs had a knack for turning personal anecdotes into universal truths. In his Stanford address, he shared three stories from his own life without sounding self-indulgent. These stories worked because each one carried a broader message relevant to every graduate: finding what you love, dealing with loss, and facing death head-on. Jobs famously urged students to “stay hungry, stay foolish,” encouraging them not just to pursue success but remain curious about life despite challenges. This advice is especially poignant for today’s graduating class.

Like Jobs, you too can craft narratives around moments that speak volumes about perseverance and passion.

Oprah’s Unflinching Honesty

Much like her television persona suggests, Oprah did not shy away from discussing her setbacks in front of Harvard’s graduating class. Instead, she confidently laid bare the challenges faced by anyone who dares greatly because failure is part of achieving greatness. As she reminded students, “It doesn’t matter how far you might rise… At some point you are bound to stumble.”

In doing so she forged an instant connection with listeners grappling with their fears about what the future holds post-graduation. It was a powerful reminder that even icons like Oprah are not immune to trials but emerge stronger through them.

The power behind these speeches lies not just in their content but also in their delivery. These speakers mastered the art of speaking confidently before crowds, maintaining eye contact, and conveying authenticity—techniques any speaker should aspire to replicate on graduation day.

Themes and Messages That Resonate with Graduates

Facing a sea of caps and gowns, the right words can turn a graduation ceremony from mundane to memorable. When crafting your commencement speech, focusing on themes like overcoming obstacles and perseverance connects deeply with graduates who have hurdled high school or college challenges.

Overcoming Obstacles

Talking about stumbling blocks is not just relatable; it’s inspirational. Think Steve Jobs at Stanford University or Oprah Winfrey at Harvard—both shared personal tales of setbacks turned into comebacks. Beyond simply telling their stories, they showed how those hurdles were stepping stones to success.

Weave your narrative around the potholes you’ve navigated during your high school years. This doesn’t mean airing every bit of dirty laundry, just highlighting that one significant moment where everything seemed against you yet failed to defeat you.

The Power of Perseverance

Perseverance is more than sticking to something—it’s pushing forward when every fiber wants to quit. It resonates because everyone, including your fellow graduates, has felt that urge to give up but chose to persevere instead.

Incorporate this theme by using vivid examples that mirror collective experiences—the all-nighters before exams or balancing sports stars ambitions with academics—to illustrate perseverance isn’t just an idea but lived reality for many students.

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Life Lessons Shared During Graduation Speeches

In addition to sharing content that fellow graduates will find relatable and inspirational, you should also consider sharing life lessons with your audience. Whether young or old, everyone has a unique perspective on life and sharing your wisdom can steer graduates toward a fulfilling path.

The Power of Kindness

Making a positive impact doesn’t require grand gestures; sometimes it’s found in small acts of kindness or an innovative idea that simplifies lives. This message sticks because everyone wants their work to mean something—to know they’ve left footprints on society’s vast canvas.

True Grit and Tenacity

Embracing failure and resilience is another powerful theme echoed by commencement speakers across podiums. Let’s face it; not all endeavors lead straight to success. But as Oprah Winfrey once said during her Harvard University commencement address, “It doesn’t matter how far you might rise… At some point, you are bound to stumble.” Her words remind us: How we pick ourselves up matters more than how we fall.

Making a Positive Impact

A graduating class stands poised on tomorrow’s threshold ready to mold history—and speeches should fuel this transformative fire within them. Memorable graduation speeches show individuals that ovation-worthy achievements are possible if you believe your actions count.

As you prepare your graduation speech, consider including one of these life lessons or one of your own. Don’t be afraid to share your hard-won insights to your fellow graduates—you just might inspire them to make history.

Celebrating Achievements and Acknowledging Contributions

Graduation is not just a ceremony. It’s a tribute to the academic achievements and extracurricular activities that have shaped students into who they are. The acknowledgment of teacher support and parental guidance also plays a pivotal role in these speeches, as they’re the scaffolding upon which student successes are built.

Academic Achievements, Extracurricular Activities

Acknowledging academic prowess goes beyond GPA scores or honor societies; it’s about highlighting unique intellectual journeys. Similarly, shining a light on extracurricular triumphs—be it sports stars setting records or artists winning competitions—adds depth to your speech. Remembering these moments isn’t merely recounting victories but celebrating the relentless spirit of your fellow graduates.

Diving deeper into personal anecdotes helps you connect with peers by reminding them of their growth through challenges faced together—from late-night study sessions to championship games. It’s these stories that make graduation memories stick with classmates long after commencement ends.

Teacher Support, Parental Guidance

The unsung heroes behind every graduate deserve their moment in your address too. Teachers’ dedication can turn classrooms into launch pads for dreams, while parents’ unwavering belief often fuels aspirations during tumultuous times like the pandemic.

In weaving tales of mentorship from teachers or wisdom imparted by parents, you remind everyone that success is rarely a solo act—it’s supported by many hands and hearts along the way. Celebrate this collective effort because each person has contributed uniquely to shaping graduating classes across America, including yours.

Common Issues in Writing and Delivering Graduation Speeches

Staring at a blank page as the clock ticks down to graduation day can rattle even the most seasoned speech writers. Overcoming writer’s block is about finding your message stick—the core idea that you want to leave with your peers. Remember, this isn’t just any talk; it’s one that marks a significant transition for both you and your audience.

Overcoming Writer’s Block

Finding yourself stumped on how to write a speech ? Don’t sweat it. Start by jotting down memories from school years or powerful life lessons that resonate. Think of Steve Jobs’ Stanford University commencement speech where he shared personal stories, which became an inspirational backbone for many other speeches.

If inspiration doesn’t strike immediately, step away from the computer. Take a walk and reflect on high school experiences or browse through commencement speeches archives—like Lin-Manuel Miranda’s address at the University of Pennsylvania. They might spark ideas you hadn’t considered yet.

Navigating Technical Troubles

A great speech can stumble over technical hiccups. To avoid glitches, check all equipment beforehand—a simple but crucial task often overlooked due to nerves or excitement about graduating class celebrations.

Prior rehearsals will also let you handle these issues like a pro should they pop up during delivery. Make sure any videos or slides complement rather than overshadow what you’re saying. After all, graduates aren’t there for bells and whistles—they’re there for meaningful words.

Handling Stage Fright

Your knees may shake thinking delivering in front of proud parents and peers—it’s no small feat, after all. Before you step on stage, visual your success until it feels more real and attainable.

And don’t forget to watch your body language. During your speech, maintain eye contact—not stare-downs—to connect genuinely with fellow students. And if anxiety creeps up despite practice sessions? Take deep breaths to steady yourself and keep going. You’ve handled high school—you can handle this.

FAQs on Writing and Delivering a Graduation Speech

What do i say in my graduation speech.

Share heartfelt stories, acknowledge support from others, and inspire your classmates to chase their dreams boldly.

How do you write a 3 minute graduation speech?

Keep it tight: hit the high notes with gratitude, shared memories, a dash of humor, and wrap up with punchy inspiration.

How do I start a graduation speech?

Kick off with thanks. Give props to family and mentors. Set the stage for reflecting on past adventures together.

What is the most important message of a graduation speech?

The core should spark hope—urge peers to leap into tomorrow equipped with lessons learned during these formative years.

Master your moment with a graduation speech that turns heads and warms hearts. Remember the power of gratitude and connect with your audience through stories, those shared adventures that bind you to your classmates. Don’t be afraid to add a few jokes and quotes to your speech either, as well as personal growth stories to inspire.

When you hit the stage, stand tall, make eye contact, and speak from your heart—the podium’s yours. If butterflies invade, breathe deep and know everyone’s rooting for you. Writer’s block didn’t stop you and neither will this.

Your graduation speech is not just words—it’s a battle cry for your graduating class as you prepare to conquer what lies ahead!

• Last Updated: March 5, 2024

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How to Write a Valedictorian Speech (Ideas, Tips, and Examples)

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Buckle up, my dear valedictorian! You’re in for a fantastic ride, and it’s your time to shine! You have a tremendous responsibility and an incredible honor to deliver a speech that genuinely captures your experiences, thoughts, and values.

Your speech should reflect your unique experience and what you represent. So, let’s explore ways to make your speech magical!

👉 3 valedictorian speech examples

Valedictorian vs. salutatorian speeches: What’s the difference?

Traditionally, the salutatorian’s role is to welcome everyone to the graduation ceremony on behalf of the graduating class.

In contrast, your speech is explicitly directed toward your classmates and given toward the end of the ceremony. Your role is to encourage your classmates to reflect on their experiences, celebrate the moment, and share wisdom for the years ahead.

💡 Pro tip: Work with the salutatorian to make sure your speeches aren’t too similar.

So what should I say?

Use the Past-Present-Future framework as your guide.

Theme:  What’s the main message that ties your speech together? If the graduation already has a theme, include it.

Opening:  Introduce yourself.

Key Idea 1: (Past)  Share a story, memory, or observation highlighting a positive quality about your classmates, school, community, or past events.

Key Idea 2: (Present)  Talk about what makes today special.

Key Idea 3: (Future)  Talk about how you look forward to the years ahead. Mention the uncertainties ahead. Give examples of people’s future plans, such as careers, skills, and geographic locations. Make predictions. Share advice.

Closing:  Give a call to action. Tie it back to your theme.

💡 Pro tip: Your graduation speech should include at least 1 or 2 stories. Stories will make your speech personal and engaging.

Download Speeko (iOS/macOS) to draft notecards and get A.I. feedback on your valedictorian speech.

What ideas should I include in my valedictorian speech?

Your speech should capture how everyone in your class feels. And don’t forget to add your own personal touch too! Here are a few important pieces to keep in mind:

Gratitude:  First and foremost, show your gratitude. Express thanks to the people who have supported you: your parents, your teachers, your classmates, and your friends. Let them know just how much their support has meant to you.

Reflection:  Take some time to reflect. Share class achievements, challenges, and memories. Talk about the experiences that have helped shape you and your class as people. And don’t forget to touch on the lessons you’ve learned along the way!

Inspiration:  Share your aspirations, and mention some of your classmates’ goals of your classmates (no need to name names). Encourage your classmates to follow their dreams, take risks, and positively impact the world. It’s a big task, but I have faith in you.

Fun:  A little laughter can go a long way in breaking the ice and connecting with your audience. If you’re not naturally funny, that’s okay! This doesn’t mean you have to tell a joke or share a funny story. You can make your speech fun by using a lively tone and engaging body language.

Advice:  Last but not least, offer some advice. You’ve gained plenty of wisdom from your experiences and the people who have influenced you. So take this opportunity to share some of that knowledge with your classmates.

How long should a valedictorian speech be?

The length of a valedictorian speech can vary depending on your ceremony. But as a general rule of thumb, you’ll want to aim for a speech that’s around 5 to 10 minutes long.

Now why is that? Well, you’ll want to give yourself enough time to cover all the main ideas you want to share. But at the same time, you’ll want to make it short enough so that you don’t bore or tire your audience. So finding that sweet spot is key.

💡 Pro tip: Time your speech beforehand. And don’t just do it once. Rehearse it several times to make sure it flows smoothly and fits within the time limit. That way, you can go into your graduation ceremony with the confidence of knowing you’ve got this speech thing down pat.

How can I make my valedictorian speech memorable?

Let’s talk about how to make your valedictorian speech memorable. Here are some tips to help you achieve that goal:

Connect with your audience:  Talk to your classmates on a personal level. For example, you can tell an inside joke that only your classmates would understand and then explain the joke briefly to everyone else in attendance.

Share a story:  Stories are powerful tools to capture the attention and emotions of your audience. Recount a personal anecdote that your audience can relate to.

Use humor:  Humor can be a great way to lighten the mood and make your speech more enjoyable. Use appropriate jokes, puns, or humor related to your graduation or classmates. But remember to keep it respectful and appropriate for your audience.

Share a quote:  Quotes are a great way to add wisdom and inspiration to your speech. Use a quote from a famous person, book, or movie that highlights your message and that your audience can remember. This can help reinforce your theme and make it more memorable.

What are some tips for delivering a successful valedictorian speech?

Delivering a great valedictorian speech requires a bit of preparation and practice. So, here are some tips to help you nail your delivery:

Prepare in advance:  Don’t procrastinate! Write it down, rehearse it several times, and time it to ensure it fits within the time limit.

Speak clearly and slowly:  Avoid mumbling or jumbling words mumbles. Keep your chin up, speak slowly enough for people to understand you, and use pauses to highlight important words.

Use your body:  Your body language can help add some oomph to your speech. Use your hands, face, and posture to help express your emotions and message. And don’t forget to make eye contact to connect with your audience!

Manage your nerves:  Don’t let nerves get to you. It’s normal to be a little jittery before speaking, but try to relax by taking deep breaths, visualizing yourself rocking the speech, and focusing on your message.

Use the “you”:  When you use “you,” “we,” and “us,” you bring your audience closer to you and make them feel included. It’s a simple technique, and it makes a powerful difference. So when you review a draft of your speech, look for how to use “you” as often as possible.

Practice:  Practice makes perfect, my friend. Practice your speech several times before the graduation ceremony to get comfortable with your message and delivery. Use feedback from others to improve your speech.

Be yourself:  Don’t try to be someone you’re not. Speak from the heart, stay true to your values, and let your personality shine through. Remember, you’re the valedictorian for a reason!

Download Speeko (iOS/macOS) to get A.I. feedback on your speaking style.

How can I make my valedictorian speech meaningful?

Creating a meaningful valedictorian speech is all about being true to yourself and connecting with your audience. Here are some tips to make your speech meaningful:

Stay positive:  Focus on the good things about your academic journey and your future plans. Encourage your classmates to chase their dreams and make a difference in the world. And hey, no need to be mean or snarky. Keep it respectful.

Be inclusive:  Include everyone in your speech. Use language that is inclusive and respectful to all members of your audience.

Show empathy:  Try understanding and connecting with your classmate’s experiences and emotions. What would they want to hear about? What would make your speech meaningful to them? Share stories that resonate with them and show that you care about their perspective. Use emotional language to really connect with them. It can be as simple as naming the emotion: “We’re all  anxious  about what’s to come…” or “I know you all are just as  excited  about the future as I am….”

What should I avoid when writing a valedictorian speech?

When you’re putting together your valedictorian speech, some common mistakes and pitfalls can detract from your message and delivery. Here are some tips to help you avoid common mistakes:

Avoid clichés: Steer clear of overused phrases that don’t have any originality or authenticity to them. Use your own words and experiences to share your message.

Stay humble: You don’t want to come across as arrogant or condescending when talking about your achievements or your classmates. Keep a humble and respectful tone that shows gratitude and appreciation.

Skip controversial topics: You don’t want to discuss anything that might offend or divide your audience. Keep things upbeat and inspiring so that everyone can relate to your message.

Mind your language: Don’t use inappropriate language, jokes, or stories that could offend or embarrass anyone in your audience. Keep things respectful and appropriate for all ages and backgrounds.

Don’t ramble: Stay focused, and don’t go off on a tangent in your speech. Keep things concise and focused on your main ideas to ensure your message comes across clearly.

What are some creative ways to start a valedictorian speech?

When it comes to writing the opening of your valedictorian speech, it can be challenging to set the tone for the rest of your speech. But don’t worry. Here are some creative ways to get you started:

Share a quote:  You can start your speech with a powerful quote that relates to your message and sticks in your classmates’ minds.

Use humor:  Start with a funny story, joke, or pun related to your graduation or classmates. You can include a few jokes. Just be careful not to go overboard with the humor.

Tell a story:  Share a personal story. It can be from your earlier years in school or even just last week!

Ask a rhetorical question:  Start your speech with a rhetorical question that prompts your classmates to think about your message and gets them engaged.

Use a metaphor:  Start with a metaphor that relates to your message and paints a vivid picture in your audience’s minds.

What are some topics to discuss in a valedictorian speech?

Choosing a theme for your valedictorian speech can be a real head-scratcher. The key is to weave stories into your speech. Stories that are specific and vivid will keep your audience engaged and entertained. Let’s take a look at some possible themes:

Gratitude:  Think of someone who had a life-altering influence on your academic journey—maybe a teacher, parent, or friend—and share a story about them. You can even reveal a little “secret” about this person you think the audience should know. This will give your speech a more intimate feel.

Cherished memories:  Ah, memories. They can be a great way to connect with your audience. Share one of your favorite moments you and your classmates have shared. Try to find a common theme among those memories that can become the theme for your entire speech.

Achievements:  As the valedictorian, you’ve achieved a lot, and so have your classmates. So why not celebrate those achievements and reflect on the hard work, dedication, and perseverance that led you all to this moment? Use your journey as an example, and inspire your classmates to continue pursuing their achievements.

Change:  Reflect on the changes and challenges you and your classmates have faced during your academic journey. For example, how did the pandemic impact your class? Or how did major advances in technology bring your class closer together?

The future:  Share your aspirations and goals, and encourage your classmates to pursue their dreams and positively impact the world. This will be a nice contrast to the stories you tell about the past.

What is the best way to end a valedictorian speech?

Ending a valedictorian speech is just as important as starting it. The ending should leave a lasting impression on your audience and end on a high note. Here are ways you can end your speech:

Tie it back to your theme:  Take a moment to summarize your key ideas and highlight the key takeaways of your speech. This will help reinforce your message and ensure that your audience remembers it.

Use humor:  End your speech with a lighthearted joke or pun that leaves your audience smiling and wraps up your message nicely.

Express gratitude:  If you haven’t thanked people earlier in your speech, take a moment to thank your fellow graduates, your teachers, your family, and anyone else who has supported you throughout your academic journey. Showing gratitude and appreciation can create a positive, uplifting ending to your speech.

Encourage action:  Inspire your audience to take action based on your message. You could encourage them to pursue their passions or make a positive impact.

Share a quote:  End your speech with a powerful quote that relates to your message and that your audience can remember. Leave them with a thought-provoking idea.

How can I find inspiration for my valedictorian speech?

Finding inspiration for your valedictorian speech can be challenging, but there are many ways to get inspired. Here are some tips:

Reflect on your experiences:  Look back at your journey, and think about the moments that made a real impact on you. Your personal experiences, thoughts, and values are all great sources of inspiration.

Just start writing!  Grab your phone (or a pen and paper) and jot down all the ideas that come to your mind, no matter how silly or impossible they seem. You never know—one of those ideas could turn into a great speech!

Talk to people:  Bouncing your ideas off others is always a good idea. Talk to your family, friends, and teachers for their perspectives and insights. They may have valuable ideas and feedback to help you shape your speech.

Research:  Take a listen to other valedictorian speeches, commencement speeches, and inspirational speeches to get some ideas. See what works and what doesn’t.

And don’t forget to have fun with it! This is your moment to shine, so enjoy it and make the most of it. Good luck!

Download Speeko (iOS/macOS) to brainstorm stories for your valedictorian speech.

🎭 Example 1

Theme:  Community

Opening:  Good afternoon, esteemed faculty members, parents, families, friends, and fellow graduates. As the valedictorian, it’s an honor to have you all at our graduation ceremony. My name is [Name]. Today marks the end of a chapter in our lives and the beginning of a new one.

Key Idea 1: (Past)  4 years ago, we were just a bunch of freshmen with no clue of what we were doing, trying to find our way through the maze: which classes to sign up for, which extracurriculars to join, which friend group to try to fit into. And then, before we knew it, we were seniors. We had a sense of purpose, trying to leave our mark on this school. We’ve had countless memories, from finals-week jitters to the carefree days of senioritis. And we made it through, and here we are today, ready to take on the world.

As a theater kid, I spent a lot of my time either rehearsing for a play or performing in one. During our first year, I was cast in our school’s production of “Grease.” I was thrilled. I had always wanted to play Sandy, and my dream finally came true. However, on opening night, disaster struck. As I walked onto the stage, I slipped on a piece of confetti. But I didn’t fall flat on my face. No, even worse: I forgot my line. The silence in the auditorium was deafening. My heart was pounding up to my ears. And for a moment, the entire world froze. But then, the person playing Frenchy ad-libbed a line to get us back on track, and the show continued on.

Later, I was talking to my parents about it, and they had no idea that anything had gone wrong.

Key Idea 2: (Present)  Looking back on that moment, I realize that school and even life are filled with moments like that. We all stumble at different points, and we have to be there for each other. School isn’t just about textbooks. It’s about the communities we discover outside of the classroom. This is how we grow into the best versions of ourselves. No matter how long our friends stay in our lives, they permanently shape our worldview. As Oliver Wendell Holmes once said: “One’s mind, once stretched by a new idea, never regains its original dimensions.”

Key Idea 3: (Future)  As for the future, who knows what it holds? But one thing is for sure: we will make the most of it. We have all worked incredibly hard to get to where we are today, and I have no doubt that we will continue to do so in the future. We’ll scatter around the world and become part of different communities. And the world will never regain its original dimensions.

Closing:  So, to everyone here, I urge you to allow yourself to slip on the confetti, forget your lines, and—most importantly—let people be there for you. Learn from your communities, grow with your communities, and maybe even help build one of your own. Congratulations, Class of [Year], and let’s all enjoy today as a once-in-a-lifetime celebration.

🏀 Example 2

Theme:  Perseverance

Opening:  Good afternoon, fellow graduates, esteemed faculty, family, and friends. My name is [Name], and I am honored to welcome you all to this momentous occasion: our graduation. And I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia for the memories we’ve made and a sense of excitement for the future that lies ahead of us.

Key Idea 1: (Past)  In the past four years, we’ve laughed, cried, learned, and grown together. We’ve experienced moments of triumph and moments of defeat.

One of the highlights of my school experience was being a basketball player. From early-morning practices to late-night games, it has taught me some valuable life lessons.

During our junior year, we were in the middle of a crucial game. With only a few minutes left on the clock, I had the ball in my hands, and I was ready to make the game-winning shot. I could hear the cheers and screams of my teammates and fans in the background. But then, out of nowhere, I tripped and fell, losing the ball and my chance to win the game.

I felt defeated and embarrassed. It was such a low point. But Coach [Name] later told me this: “Life is unpredictable, and sometimes, things don’t go as planned. But it’s how we react to those moments that define us. It’s all about perseverance.”

Key Idea 2: (Present)  Today, we’re ready to take on the next chapter of our lives. Today marks the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Today is a day we honor our teachers, administrators, and staff who have guided and supported us throughout our journey. Today represents a significant milestone in our lives and the beginning of a new chapter.

Key Idea 3: (Future)  And in the future, I can’t wait to see where our journeys take us. Some of us will go on to college, others will enter the workforce, and some will serve our country in the military. Someone will become an entrepreneur, artist, or athlete—or all of the above. Whatever path we choose, I’m confident that we can all achieve greatness. And we will undoubtedly have many moments of triumph as well as many moments of defeat. It’s how we react in those moments that will define us. Whatever we do, I hope we never forget the lessons we have learned here at [School name] and continue to grow from our experiences.

Closing:  Thank you to our friends and families for your unwavering support. And to my fellow graduates, I am honored to have shared these four years with you all. Congratulations, Class of [Year]! Let’s make the future bright!

📚 Example 3

Theme:  Appreciate the small moments

Opening:  Good evening, fellow graduates, esteemed faculty, proud parents, and distinguished guests. It’s an honor to stand before you as the valedictorian of our graduating class. My name is [Name]. I’d like to warmly welcome everyone in attendance and express my gratitude for being part of this memorable occasion.

Key Idea 1: (Past)  I’d like to take a moment to reflect on our past experiences. Four years ago, we came into these hallways as timid freshmen, unsure what the next four years would bring. We stumbled through our first day of school, struggling to find the paths to our classes. But soon enough, we found our way and began to thrive.

One of my fondest memories is when I was a sophomore and sat down in a classroom for a final exam. I sat down, confident in how well I prepared, only to realize I knew nothing about what was on the exam sheet. After frantically flipping through my notes, I looked up to see the wrong teacher staring at me from the front of the room. Then I looked around and realized I was surrounded by seniors! I had walked into the wrong classroom. It was a humbling experience, to say the least. And it was a small moment, but it’s one that I’ll never forget.

Key Idea 2: (Present)  Looking back, I realize now that it’s not just the academic achievements that make our time here so special. It’s these small moments, the laughter shared with our friends, the support of our teachers, and the sense of community that make this an unforgettable experience.

Today is a day we’ll remember for years to come. We’re filled with excitement, anticipation, and a tremendous sense of accomplishment. It’s a day that marks the end of one chapter in our lives and the beginning of a new one, a day where we celebrate the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Today, we’ve come together as a [School mascot] community, ready to take on the world with confidence and determination. It is a day that reminds us of the limitless potential we hold within ourselves and the boundless opportunities that lie ahead.

Key Idea 3: (Future)  As we stand on the cusp of our future, the world is our oyster. We have been given the tools to succeed, and now it is up to us to utilize them to the best of our ability.

We’re moving forward into the next phase of our lives, and we can’t forget the values and lessons we have learned during our time here. The friendships we’ve made, the teachers who’ve guided us, and the experiences that have shaped us—these will always be a part of us.

Closing:  So, to my fellow graduates and everyone who has come here to support us, let us celebrate our accomplishments, cherish the small moments, and look forward to a bright future. Thank you, and congratulations to the graduating class of [Year].

Speeko for graduation speeches

Tap into the power of A.I. coaching to unleash your full speaking potential. Use Speeko to prepare, write, and organize your valedictorian speech. From gathering your stories to using humor, you’ll strengthen your skills and receive invaluable feedback on key areas of your speaking style.

Nico Aguilar is co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Speeko.

How to Write a Graduation Speech as Valedictorian

A good valedictory speech takes preparation and practice

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The valedictory speech is a staple of graduation ceremonies. It is usually delivered by the valedictorian (the student with the highest grades in the graduating class), although some colleges and high schools have abandoned the practice of naming a valedictorian. The terms "valedictory" and "valedictorian" come from the Latin valedicere , meaning a formal farewell, and this is core to what a valedictory speech should be.

Understand the Goal

The valedictorian speech should fulfill two goals: It should convey a "sending off" message  to the members of a graduating class, and it should inspire them to leave school ready to embark on an exciting new adventure. You likely have been chosen to deliver this speech because you've proven you are an excellent student who can live up to adult responsibilities. Now it's time to make every student in your class feel special.

As you prepare your speech , think about your shared experiences with the class and the people with whom you shared them. This should include popular and quiet students, class clowns and brains, teachers, principals, professors, deans, and other school employees. It's important to make everyone feel as if they played an important role in this shared experience.

If you have limited experience in certain aspects of school life, ask for help in collecting important names and events you might not know about. Are there clubs or teams that won prizes? Students who volunteered in the community?

Compile a List of Highlights

Make a list of highlights of your time in school, putting more emphasis on the current year. Start with these brainstorming questions:

• Who received awards or scholarships?
• Were any sports records broken?
• Is a teacher retiring after this year?
• Did your class have a reputation with teachers , good or bad?
• How many students remain from freshman year?
• Was there a dramatic event in the world this year?
• Was there a dramatic event at your school?
• Was there a funny moment everyone enjoyed?

You might need to conduct personal interviews to learn about these benchmarks.

Write the Speech

Valedictory speeches often combine humorous and serious elements. Start by greeting your audience with a "hook" that grabs their attention. For example, you could say, "Senior year has been full of surprises," or "We're leaving the faculty with lots of interesting memories," or "This senior class has set records in some unusual ways."

Organize your speech into topics describing these elements. You might want to start with an event that's on everyone's mind, such as a championship basketball season, a student featured on a television show, or a tragic event in the community. Then focus on the other highlights, putting them into context and explaining their importance. For example:

"This year, Jane Smith won a National Merit Scholarship. This may not seem like a big deal, but Jane overcame a year of illness to achieve this goal. Her strength and perseverance are an inspiration to our whole class."

Use Anecdotes and Quotes

Come up with anecdotes to illustrate your shared experiences. These brief stories can be funny or poignant. You could say, "When the student newspaper printed a story about the family who lost their home to a fire, our classmates rallied and organized a series of fundraisers."

You can sprinkle in quotes from famous people as well. These quotes work best in the introduction or conclusion and should reflect the theme of your speech. For example:

• "The pain of parting is nothing to the joy of meeting again." (Charles Dickens)
• "You will find the key to success under the alarm clock." (Benjamin Franklin)
• "There is only one success: to be able to spend your life in your own way." (Christopher Morley)

Plan for Time

Be mindful of the appropriate length of your speech. Most people speak about 175 words per minute, so a 10-minute speech should contain about 1,750 words. You can fit about 250 words onto a double-spaced page, so that translates to seven pages of double-spaced text for 10 minutes of speaking time.

Tips for Preparing to Speak

It's important to practice your valedictory speech before giving it. This will help you troubleshoot problem spots, cut boring parts, and add elements if you're running short. You should:

• Practice reading your speech aloud to see how it sounds
• Time yourself, but remember you may speak faster when you're nervous
• Focus on remaining calm
• Put aside comedy if it feels unnatural
• Be tactful if broaching a tragic topic you feel needs to be included. Consult a teacher or adviser if you have any doubts.

If possible, practice your speech using the microphone in the location where you'll be graduating—your best chance might be just before the event. This will give you an opportunity to experience the sound of your magnified voice, figure out how to stand, and get past any butterflies in your stomach .

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Amazing Valedictorian Speech Examples & Tips | SpeechPaths

Memorable valedictorian speech examples (+ tips & ideas).

Becoming a valedictorian and giving a speech in front of other fellow graduates is a great honor. On the flip side, drafting a memorable speech that the audience will remember for a long time is a huge stress. You need to reflect about four years in high school, choose a theme that will resonate with others, and keep the audience engaged during the entire speech.

To make things easier for you, in this post, our pro speechwriters share the secrets for writing a perfect speech for your graduation ceremony.

Keep reading to find out:

• tips & tricks for writing a great valedictorian speech,
• two speech examples for your inspiration, and
• recommendations for polishing your delivery.

Are you too stressed to write your high school graduation speech? No worries - our experienced speech writers can craft your text from scratch or revise it. We prepare witty, inventive, and attention-grabbing speeches even if you need them by tomorrow. Contact us ASAP to get a free quote and your special student discount!

Good valedictorian speech examples

If you're not sure where to get started, take a look at the example valedictorian speeches to get inspired:

Source:  https://www.sampletemplates.com/business-templates/valedictorian-speech-examples.html

This speech reflects on the unique experience of everyone present and the importance of seeing each day as a learning experience. It also has an inspirational note, encouraging the classmates not to let our self-doubt stand in front of the new opportunities. As any other valedictorian address, it expresses gratitude to teachers, peers, parents, and faculty, and mentions that graduation is only the start of an exciting life.

Source:  https://www.docformats.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Graduation-Speech.png

This concise valedictorian speech congratulates proud graduates and is less formal than the previous one. It emphasizes the importance of education and academic excellence, as well as the friends you made in high school, and ends on a high note, congratulating peers on graduation day and encouraging them to take any path that students want in life.

You can use these examples to get an idea of how to organize your text and what to add. Below, we'll share tips and guidance for writing memorable, inventive valedictorian speeches.

What to say in your graduation speech: Tips & strategies

Good valedictorian speeches share some common elements. They express gratitude for being invited to speak, reflect on shared memories of school days, and look forward to the next phase of life. Here's how to craft a strong high school graduation speech:

Begin with a welcome and gratitude

The opening of your valedictorian speech sets the tone for the rest of your presentation, so it's essential to grab your audience's attention from the start.

Begin your speech by thanking everyone who helped you achieve something in life and guided you along the journey - teachers, students, and parents. This will set a humble, appreciative tone. Congratulate fellow students on their big day and start with an anecdote or an interesting fact.

Choose a theme for your valedictorian speech

Good speeches have a central element that sets the tone. You may use one element for the entire graduation speech, or use two or three, just be sure to keep your speech concise. Reach out to other presenters to make sure that they don't use the same theme as you, otherwise the audience will be bored. Here are some popular valedictorian speech perspectives you can use:

• friends and friendship
• shared memories
• overcoming obstacles and failures
• advice to achieve success
• importance of gratitude
• stories about classmates, etc.

Mention collective experiences

After four years in high school, you and your classmates surely have some interesting stories and experiences. Consider telling about challenges you faced, anecdotes, or stories about important milestones. You can mention both achievements and learning experiences.

Sharing such stories will make your speech personal and human, and also will remind your friends and teachers about the most memorable moments.

Use inspiring quotes

Every great valedictorian speech quotes some accomplished person: Oprah Winfrey, J.K. Rawling, Steve Jobs, etc. A relevant quote helps inspire the audience, better get your message across and surely draws the attention. Use quotes related to education, achievements, professional development, staying true to yourself, and overcoming setbacks.

Reflect on challenges you faced

Your graduating class surely had its fair share of challenges. Recollect the obstacles that the entire class or several students faced and how they overcame these challenges in your valedictorian speech. Such stories highlight resilience and determination, and show the life lessons you learned.

Similarly, you can tell about the shared triumph - winning in the contest or achieving a big goal together. Just be sure to pick stories that matter to your classmates and resonate with everybody. Such stories will inspire your peers to do better and overcome adversity in the future.

Storytelling techniques make any speech better. They keep the audience engaged and make people relate to your message. Weaving in inspirational stories will also remind your peers about the friendship and the importance of events they had together.

Look into the future

Graduating from school is not the end of your academic journey. In addition to reflecting on the past, a good valedictorian speech also looks positively in the future. Encourage your classmates to embrace change, pursue their dreams fearlessly, and make a positive impact on the world. No matter what path they choose, wish well to everyone in your graduating class and express hope for a great future.

Mention the importance of developing their talents and gaining knowledge for achieving success in life. Encourage everyone to grow professionally and personally. Everybody has the power to make a difference, so, you might want to make this a central element of your speech.

End on a positive note

At the end of the speech, recap the key points and remarkable moments you've shared in your address. Remind the audience about the amazing journey you had together. You don't know if you'll cross paths with your classmates and whether you'll go to the same university. So, wish them luck in all future endeavors and thank them for the time spent together.

Consider adding an inspiring call to action as well. Encourage your friends to pursue their dreams, realize their potential, and stay true to themselves. This will leave your audience with a closing statement that exudes optimism for the future and the great opportunities it holds.

Practice delivering your speech

Your valedictorian speech won't captivate the hearts of the audience if you don't show genuine emotions and read it from paper. After you've written your speech, take some time to polish your delivery. Practice speaking it at home in front of the mirror, or deliver the speech to your friends and family.

Watch your body language and use gestures.

Speak in front of the mirror to control your gestures, facial impressions, and other elements of body language. Use specific hand movements, facial expressions, and posture to enhance your message and connect better with the audience. Make sure that your posture and face are consistent with what you are saying.

Pay attention to your vocal delivery.

Use appropriate pauses and variations of tone to make your speech not only informative, but also emotional. Practice speaking in the microphone to choose the appropriate volume of your speech. Record yourself to see shortcomings in your delivery and fix them. Use a positive, hopeful tone to inspire your classmates and leave a lasting impression.

Maintain eye contact.

When delivering your valedictorian speech, you'll need to maintain eye contact to keep your audience engaged. Learn to scan the room and make eye contact with different sections of the audience. If this sounds challenging at first, try looking at the most distant person in the hall and speaking to them.

Mistakes to avoid when delivering your valedictorian speech

When it comes to delivering a stellar valedictorian speech, content and delivery are equally important. Be sure to avoid these common mistakes to leave a lasting impression:

• Don't read your speech  - while using speaker's notes is okay, reading from paper makes a poor impression. It shows your fellow graduates that you didn't take enough time to rehearse and practice.
• Don't rush  - some people start speaking faster when they get nervous. Yet, there's a risk that the audience miss the content of your speech. Practice to maintain a steady pace so that everyone understands your message.
• Don't use little-known facts  - in your speech, use stories that most graduates know and will find relatable. Sharing a story about your friend that anyone knows isn't likely to sound impressive.
• Don't keep it too formal  - leaving high school is an important emotional moment, so being too reserved can spoil the moment. Use genuine emotions when crafting your valedictorian speech - they will surely resonate with the audience.
• Don't overuse cliches  - each bad valedictorian speech is full of cliches. To make your speech memorable, use authentic stories and vivid language. If you struggle to pick the right words, consider working with a speechwriter.

By following these tips, you'll craft a valedictorian speech that reflects your shared journey, motivates your classmates for great things in life, and leaves everyone uplifted and inspired. So, encourage your classmates to strive for excellence in everything and highlight the potential of each individual.

Use storytelling techniques, show genuine emotions, and use an enthusiastic tone to get your speech remembered by everyone.

Let our valedictorian speech experts help and impress your graduating class

Writing and delivering a valedictorian speech is a responsible task. If you feel the pressure or your perfectionism gets in the way, consider getting help from a talented speechwriter. At SpeechPaths, we prepare affordable speeches for any special occasion, including high school graduation.

You'll work one-on-one with a pro writer who will find the right words and use storytellin

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Your Guide To Writing The Perfect Valedictorian Speech (With Sample Speech)

Hrideep barot.

• Speech Writing

So, you have managed to achieve the feat that’s probably the dream of most high school students: you’re the valedictorian. 

Congratulations, that is amazing.

You definitely deserve a pat on your back–maybe multiple ones. 

But, while this sounds like the perfect time to sit back and relax, it’s probably not. You still have one big task left to complete: delivering your valedictorian speech. 

But don’t worry. 

You managed to seize the highest marks in your class. Compared to that, delivering this speech should be a piece of cake. And even if it’s not–if you’re someone more comfortable with books than speaking in front of other people–don’t worry. We’ve got you. 

For delivering a memorable Valedictorian speech, keep in mind a few things like incorporating humor and storytelling, having a theme, getting other students’ insight & keeping your most important point for the end of your speech.  

We’ve delved into them deeper in the following sections. 

Tips To Keep In Mind While Writing Your Valedictorian Speech

1. Talk About Things You’ve Learnt Outside The Classroom 

While classroom learning is something that’s common to most of the students in the audience–that is, all of you probably learned the same coursework–what’s different is the stuff that you learned OUTSIDE the classroom. 

Talk about your personal experiences. The valuable lessons that seemingly trivial incidents taught you, what you remember the most from time spent with friends, etc. Teach them something they haven’t learned before; something that doesn’t involve an unwieldy textbook. 

2. Make Sure To Incorporate Humor 

Don’t just step up on the stage and start talking about a bunch of motivational stuff. If you truly wish to motivate your peers and make them remember you, then you need to incorporate humor in your speech. 

That’s because humor is a universal way to connect with people & make good memories with them. Think about all the good moments in your life, and chances are, you’ll realize you were smiling in more than one of them. 

For Example: “Your families are extremely proud of you. You can’t imagine the sense of relief they are experiencing. This would be a most opportune time to ask for money.”

We can also use the Paraprosdokian technique to make our speeches funny. It’s a simple technique which means narrating a story and having a surprise twist at the end. Want to know how some of our most beloved celebrities go about using this technique (and how you can too)? Check out this (entertaining) video we made:

3. Tell Stories 

Stories are another excellent way of connecting with your peers. Especially if it’s a popular story that most people recognize or was maybe quite the rage at a time in your school–chances are, at a time like this, repeating it will work to evoke fonder memories and emotions in your audience. 

So, make sure to use stories in your speech. 

For Example: Have you ever been the new kid in school? Well, I have…

We’ve created an entire video on how your can go about narrating great stories. The narrative structures and techniques discussed here will help you craft a compelling and engaging narrative:

4. Have A Theme 

Themes are a great way to enhance the impact of your speech. That’s because they are a common point that your entire speech is organized towards anything that you say in your speech can inevitably be traced back to it. 

Pick a theme that can inspire your audience. For example: 

• Why the best years of our life are  not  behind us
• What high-school didn’t prepare you for
• Why it’s okay to fail
• Why not being the top of class is not a big deal
• Why the small picture is more important than the big picture

5. Talk To Other Students 

Your valedictorian speech is not just a cornerstone in your own high-school life, but also a testament to the life and experiences of the other students in the audience. So, why not include them in the writing of your speech?

I’m not asking you to get another student to write your speech for you. Rather, what I’m suggesting is talking to other students, and getting insight into their own thoughts, experiences & emotions. 

You can use them or the common themes you hear to structure your speech, and even include a couple of incidents or other things into your speech. This will greatly increase the impact that you make. 

Check our article 11 Engaging Ways To Interact With The Audience to make your speech a wholesome and interactive experience for the audience. 

6. Keep It Short & Simple 

Remember that your speech is a part of a larger ceremony that’s taking place and that most people in the audience are unlikely to pay attention to an hour-long speech. 

So, make sure that your speech is short and simple. Stick to the main points. A general guideline would be to have your speech be anything between 5-15 minutes. You can confirm if you have a time limit with the principal. 

7. Keep Your Most Important Point For The End 

How you end your speech is just as important as the way you begin it. That’s because while your beginning will determine whether people pay attention to your speech–or doze off–the ending will determine the takeaway that people return with. 

Your speech should be organized in such a way that it leads up to the final point that you make, which should be your most important point. 

This is going to be the line that people will most likely remember for a long time, the main takeaway from your speech. It can be a quote, the summary of a story or memory that you’ve spoken before, a few words of wisdom, or even a quote. 

For more inspiration on how to end your speech, check out our article on 50 Speech Closing Lines (& How To Create Your Own) l The Ultimate Guide 

How To Start Your Valedictorian Speech 

1. Start With An Anecdote 

As I mentioned before, stories and anecdotes are a must in any speech. And what better way to include them in your speech than have them right at the beginning? 

Stories will work to hook your audience right from the beginning and make it more likely that they will stick with you till the end. 

For Example: In Grade 11, one of my friends started the fire alarm…

2. Use A Prop 

Props are another great way to start off your speech. They are eye-catching, and if used correctly, can create an entire story for your audience. So you’re hitting two birds with one stone!

However, before using props, one thing to keep in mind is to make sure that they’re relevant to the topic at hand. Don’t just use a prop for the sake of using one. 

Examples of props:

• Your high-school yearbook
• A photograph
• A memoir from a popular school incident
• Your graduation cap
• Memorable food from cafeteria

3. Make Them Imagine 

Another great way to start off your speech is to make your audience imagine a scenario. By evoking the power of imagination, you will pique your audience’s mind and make it more likely that they will pay attention to you. 

You can make them imagine many scenarios. You could get them to picture the future, or even make them recall a particular incident from the past. 

For Example: Imagine you’re sitting in the classroom…

4. Sing A Song 

This is a different–and somewhat unconventional–way to start off your speech. Was there a song or piece of lyrics that were really popular back in high school? Maybe something that was viral with a lot of students. 

Well, now would be a great time to make them remember it. Not only will this evoke fond memories, but it might also make them join in with you, thus taking the interaction to another level. 

5. Tell A Joke 

Another great way to start off your speech is by telling a joke. As I mentioned, humor is an essential element for any speech or presentation. It can spice up a boring speech, and make a more difficult point easy to remember. 

Start off your speech with a joke. This can be done in the form of a normal punchline format, or you could mix up different elements by telling a funny story or using your prop as a joke. 

For Example: I was good at math, once they decided to mix the alphabet into it. 

For more information on how to open your speech, check out our article on 50 Speech Opening Lines (& How To Create Your Own) l The Ultimate Guide. 

How Long Should The Speech Be? 

As mentioned above, you need to remember that you’re not giving an isolated speech. Neither is the speech the only important component of the entire event. 

Rather, your speech is part of a bigger ceremony that is going to be likely many times longer than it. 

So, it’s important to make sure that you don’t dawdle on for too long. Not only will this make most of the students in the audience more impatient, but longer speeches generally tend to be less intirguing and harder to retain. 

That’s why it’s important to keep your speech short. Preferably somewhere between 5-15 minutes. 

This will give you ample time to cover your most important details, while also making sure that your fellow students and teachers don’t doze off from boredom. 

Sample Valedictorian Speech

You’re probably wondering why I’m smiling like an idiot right now–and why I have been the entire way on the stage. Well, that’s because as I prepare to deliver my final speech on this stage, I can’t stop thinking about my first time up here. When I first came to high-school, I was a shy kid whose worst fear was speaking in front of a big crowd of people. That’s because I have always been very imaginative, you see. But instead of using my imagination for writing stories as I now do, I used to use it to imagine the worst possible stories and scenarios in my head. And so when I somehow let my English teacher convince me to take part in a debate competition during my freshman year, most of my energy was focused on all the things that could go wrong during my speech rather than the speech itself. You know, like, me stumbling and falling on my face as I climbed all those big steps to the stage. Or me forgetting my speech in the middle. Or me bursting into tears from all the nerves and pressure–which is exactly what happened. Yep, ALL OF IT. Not only did I fall falt on my face the moment I stepped on the stage, but I also proceeded to tick off the other two items on the list–all within the span of two minutes. I was so embarrased that I swore to my mother I would NEVER in my life take another step inside this high-school. My mom indulged me for one day, and then sent me packing straight to school counselor’s office the next day. You’re probably wondering why I’m recounting what was probably the most embarrasing moment of my life on the best moment of my life. Well, that’s because, while at that moment it certainly felt that way, now I know that I’m not alone. Over the course of these four years, every single one of you has probably felt at least once as embarrased as I felt on that day. This speech is for all of you who’ve ever felt so humiliated that they felt like crawling under a giant rock and never showing your face to the other people sitting around you again. And yet, WE DID IT. The fact that we’re sitting in this room today is proof that we did. Despite the embarrasement or fear or regret or failure, we showed up. Maybe we didn’t show up right away, but we did pick ourselves up and got things together eventually. And in the end, that’s what matters: not when you get yourself together, but the fact that you do. As most of us in this room know from experience, being a senior is not all fun and games. Applying to a bunch of colleges, juggling classes and assignments, making sure your grades don’t slip, trying to squeeze in as many last-time high-school experiences as you can in the little time you can find between all them…well, it’s not easy. And yet we made it–all of us did. Graduation marks the close of a big chapter in our lives. It has been a chapter filled with tears and laughter, pranks and solutions, good memories and bad memories, of last-minute studying for exams taking place the next day, running behind the school bus in a seemingly impossible attempt to catch it, of attempts to stifle laughter in the middle of exams, and much much more… I can say with confidence that none of us sitting in this room today are the same person that we were on the day your story began. And all of us have witnessed each other bloom in this journey. And this is not the end–today, the doors to a new journey have been opened to us. And as we prepare to take our first step in this new journey, I’d like to thank each and every single one of the people who have helped us pass the previous one. I would like to thank our principal, all of our teachers and staff, our parents, and each and every single one of you sitting in this room today. Thank you. It doesn’t matter whether you’ve been a small part of our journey or a big one, it doesn’t matter whether you’ve been in every single chapter of this book or only a paragraph–it wouldn’t have been the same without you. And I would like you to thank yourself as well. Thank yourself for having the courage to stand up after you fall, and to have the strength to show up day after day. Thank yourself for showing up despite the terrible food–if you can call it that–served in the cafeteria every single day. Give yourself a pat on the back. You deserve it.

Valedictorian Speech Examples

1. the king’s academy class of 2019.

Takeaway: This speech is a great example of how you can structure your entire valedictorian speech around a central theme to make it more memorable and intriguing. You can use it to select & organize your own speech.

2. La Plata High School Class of 2015

Takeaway: This speech is a great example of how you can effectively incorporate humor into your own speech. Use it to structure the flow of humor in your speech and to understand how to use humor without making it seem too forced.

3. West Hall High School Class Of 2010

Takeaway: This is an excellent speech to figure out how you can creatively use props in your own speech to make it a more interactive, visually appealing & memorable experience for your audience.

To conclude, writing a memorable Valedictorian speech isn’t as daunting of a task as it sounds. For delivering a memorable Valedictorian speech, keep in mind a few things like incorporating humor and storytelling, having a theme, getting other students’ insight & keeping your most important point for the end of your speech.  

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This writer analyzed 100 graduation speeches — here are the 4 tips they all share

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Steve Jobs has been credited over the years with popularizing any number of other people’s inventions, from the personal computer to the tablet to the mobile phone. But none of these gifts may be as enduring as one of his rarely credited contributions to contemporary life — popularizing the viral commencement address.

On June 12, 2005, Jobs stood before the graduating class of Stanford University and reminded them that he had never graduated from college. “Truth be told, this is the closest I’ve ever gotten to a college graduation.” He then told three stories about his life. “That’s it. No big deal. Just three stories.”

That speech , coinciding as it did with the rise of internet virality (the first TED Talk would be posted on TED.com exactly 12 months later; the iPhone was introduced exactly 12 months after that), launched a global obsession with pithy, inspirational talks. Jobs’s speech has since been viewed more than 40 million times on YouTube.

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, Mary Karr, David Foster Wallace and many others have all had their commencement speeches published as books.

I’ve been fortunate to give a handful of commencement addresses over the years, and I confess to a fascination with the genre. The internet has been a boon this hobby. There are thousands of commencement speeches on the web. Can we learn anything from their messages?

I’ve spent the last few years gathering and coding hundreds of life stories, looking for patterns and takeaways that could help all of us live with more meaning, purpose and joy. I decided to put some of my coding tools to work, analyzing 100 of the most popular recent commencement speeches.

Here are the four tips they all contain:

1. Dream big

“I think it is often easier to make progress on mega-ambitious dreams. I know that sounds completely nuts. But, since no one else is crazy enough to do it, you have little competition. There are so few people this crazy that I feel like I know them all by first name. They all travel as if they are pack dogs and stick to each other like glue. The best people want to work the big challenges.” — Larry Page at University of Michigan , 2009

“We don’t beat the reaper by living longer. We beat the reaper by living well and living fully. For the reaper is always going to come for all of us. The question is: What do we do between the time we are born, and the time he shows up? Because when he shows up, it’s too late to do all the things that you’re always gonna, kinda get around to.” — Randy Pausch at Carnegie Mellon University , 2009

“Graduates, we need you. We need you to run companies and make decisions about who has access to capital. We need you to serve at the highest levels of government and determine our country’s standing in the world. We need you to work in our hospitals and in our courtrooms and in our schools. We need you to shape the future of technology. We need you because your perspective — the sum total of your intellect and your lived experience — will make our country stronger.” — Kamala Harris at Tennessee State University , 2022

2. Work hard

“Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to 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

“I just directed my first film. I was completely unprepared, but my own ignorance to my own limitations looked like confidence and got me into the director’s chair. Once there, I had to figure it all out, and my belief that I could handle these things, contrary to all evidence of my ability to do so was half the battle. The other half was very hard work. The experience was the deepest and most meaningful one of my career.” — Natalie Portman at Harvard University , 2015

“When you’re doing the work you’re meant to do, it feels right and every day is a bonus, regardless of what you’re getting paid … But make it your life’s work to remake the world because there is nothing more beautiful or more worthwhile than working to leave something better for humanity.” — Oprah Winfrey at Stanford University , 2008

3. Make mistakes

”Fail big. That’s right. Fail big … It’s a new world out there, and it’s a mean world out there, and you only live once. So do what you feel passionate about. Take chances, professionally. Don’t be afraid to fail. There’s an old IQ test with nine dots, and you had to draw five lines with a pencil within these nine dots without lifting the pencil, and the only way to do it was to go outside the box. So don’t be afraid to go outside the box.” — Denzel Washington at University of Pennsylvania , 2011

“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

“My experience has been that my mistakes led to the best thing in my life. Being embarrassed when you mess up is part of the human experience of getting back up dusting yourself off and seeing who still wants to hang out with you afterward and laugh about it. That’s a gift. The times I was told no or wasn’t included wasn’t chosen, didn’t win, didn’t make the cut, looking back it really feels like those moments we’re as important if not more crucial than the moments I was told yes.” — Taylor Swift at NYU , 2022

“Work hard, be kind, and amazing things will happen.” — Conan O’Brien at Dartmouth College , 2011

“Empathy and kindness are the true signs of emotional intelligence.” — Will Ferrell at the University of Southern California , 2017

“So here’s something I know to be true, although it’s a little corny, and I don’t quite know what to do with it: What I regret most in my life are failures of kindness. Those moments when another human being was there, in front of me, suffering, and I responded … sensibly. Reservedly. Mildly. Or, to look at it from the other end of the telescope: Who, in your life, do you remember most fondly, with the most undeniable feelings of warmth? Those who were kindest to you, I bet. It’s a little facile, maybe, and certainly hard to implement, but I’d say, as a goal in life, you could do worse than: Try to be kinder.” — George Saunders at Syracuse University , 2013

So what can we learn from these themes?

Every era in American life has its own standards of what it means to be a success. Shortly after America’s founding, success was all about character. Led by Benjamin Franklin, Americans embraced virtue, industry, and frugality. In the twentieth century, success was all about personality. Led by Dale Carnegie, Americans embraced salesmanship, reinvention and charisma. Today, led by Steve Jobs, Americans are embracing meaning, authenticity and bliss. Or, as Kermit the Frog put it in a 1996 commencement speech at Southampton College , “May success and a smile always be yours … even when you’re knee-deep in the sticky muck of life.”

Dream, work, fail and smile are as good a foursome of American identity today as I know. And if those ideas don’t inspire you, you can always embrace the far more practical advice erroneously attributed to Kurt Vonnegut in a commencement speech that he never gave at MIT, but was instead delivered by Chicago Tribune columnist Mary Schmich in an imaginary speech to graduates she published in an old-fashioned newspaper, “Ladies and gentlemen of the class of ’97: Wear sunscreen.”

This post was adapted from one published on his newsletter The Nonlinear Life; go here to subscribe.

Watch his TEDxIEMadrid Talk now:

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. His latest book, Life Is in the Transitions: Mastering Change at Any Age, from which this post and TEDx Talk are adapted, describes his journey across America, collecting hundreds of life stories, exploring how we can navigate life’s growing number of transitions with more meaning, purpose and joy. To learn more, visit brucefeiler.com, follow him on Twitter (@brucefeiler), or sign up for his newsletter The Nonlinear Life. 

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Anatomy Of A Great Commencement Speech

Cory Turner

Right now, roughly 7 million students in the U.S. (plus their parents) are sitting through commencement speeches. iStockphoto hide caption

Right now, roughly 7 million students in the U.S. (plus their parents) are sitting through commencement speeches.

It's that time again — graduation season. And that means next week or last week or right this very minute, some 7 million students in the U.S. and lots of doting parents have to sit through a commencement speech.

If you're stuck listening to a particularly bad one — or just need an inspiration infusion — the NPR Ed Team has sifted through hundreds of past speeches (going all the way back to 1774) and built an online database of the very best.

In the process of building this massive hub of hope and optimism, we noticed a few patterns among the best speeches.

Rule #1: Be Funny

Comedian Amy Poehler's 2011 address to Harvard grads is a model of inspirational fun, forcing us to coin a new term: "Funspirational." Actually, a quick Google search suggests we've come late to the "funspirational" party. Oh, well. We do our best — as did Poehler when she kicked off her Harvard speech with this zinger:

"I can only assume I am here today because of my subtle and layered work in a timeless classic entitled Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo. "

Funny? Check. Poehler also manages to cover Rule #2.

Rule #2: Make Fun Of Yourself

This rule applies to presidents as well as to comedians. When then-President Ronald Reagan addressed Notre Dame grads in 1981, he used this masterful bit of self-deprecation:

"I thought the first degree I was given was honorary."

We say "masterful" because he's head of the free world. He can't meet the Poehler bar for self-mockery: utter humiliation. It wouldn't be proper. So he finds this crafty little jab to poke fun at himself. And the crowd loved it. In fact, the line was such a hit that Reagan used it again the next year on the Eureka College class of '82.

Comedian and actress Amy Poehler addresses Harvard University's graduating class of 2011 on the school's campus, in Cambridge, Mass. Steven Senne/AP hide caption

Comedian and actress Amy Poehler addresses Harvard University's graduating class of 2011 on the school's campus, in Cambridge, Mass.

Rule #3: Downplay The Genre

See, good speakers can never seem to remember the speeches when they graduated:

"Among the many things that I am unable to remember about the speaker that spring morning: name, gender, age, race, physical build and voice. I've run out of fingers."

That's novelist Jonathan Safran Foer, speaking last year at Middlebury College. He, like Poehler, checks two boxes at once: He downplays the genre, and he's funny about it.

But let's get to the heart of the commencement speech:

Rule #4: You Must Have A Message

And here's where things get tricky — because these days there are two very different kinds of speeches. On one side is the traditional message:

"You have to trust in something," Steve Jobs told graduates at Stanford in 2005. "Your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. Because believing that the dots will connect down the road will give you the confidence to follow your heart even when it leads you off the well-worn path."

Comedian Ellen DeGeneres said much the same thing to grads at Tulane in 2009 (while also crushing Rule #1 on her head like a beer can):

"Stay true to yourself. Never follow someone else's path — unless you're in the woods and you're lost and you see a path, then by all means you should follow that."

Let's call this the "You're Special" speech. Message: Follow your heart because life is about you and yourspecialness .

Then comes this insidious other kind of speech:

"You're not special."

So said English teacher David McCullough Jr. — son of the great historian — addressing the Wellesley High School class of 2012. He then elaborated:

"Even if you're one in a million, on a planet of 6.8 billion, that means there are nearly 7,000 people just like you," he told the crowd.

The goal of the "You're Not Special" speech is to say to grads: As hard as you've worked, you also lucked into plenty, including your parents and your country.

The Best Commencement Speeches, Ever

"And with luck comes obligation," author Michael Lewis told the Princeton class of 2012. "You owe a debt, and not just to your gods. You owe a debt to the unlucky."

Not quite the message grads are used to hearing as they take a victory lap. Besides, they're in debt enough. But how do they repay this debt, to Lewis' unlucky?

"You must find a way to serve."

That's Oprah Winfrey's advice, speaking at Spelman College a few weeks before Lewis. Side note: 2012 was a big year for the "You're Not Special" speech.

"Martin Luther King said that not everybody can be famous, but everybody can be great because greatness is determined by service," Winfrey told the Spelman grads.

Service. That word comes up a lot in "You're Not Special" speeches. But, sometimes, the message isn't even about what you do for the world but how you view it. In short: Are you empathetic? Are you kind?

In 2005, writer David Foster Wallace spoke at Kenyon College. And, in a speech that went viral long ago and seems to find a fresh audience online every year, he challenged grads to step outside of themselves, to imagine the value and richness of every life — even when they're stuck in line at the supermarket.

"It will actually be within your power to experience a crowded, hot, slow, consumer hell-type situation as not only meaningful but sacred — on fire with the same force that lit the stars: love, fellowship, the mystical oneness of all things deep down," Wallace said.

Torn by this fight for the soul of the commencement speech? Never fear. Oddly enough, these two kinds of speeches — as different as they seem — complement each other. Taken together, they say:

Congratulations. You are special. Just remember ...

So is everyone else.

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How to Write a Valedictorian Speech

Last Updated: December 10, 2022 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Lynn Kirkham . Lynn Kirkham is a Professional Public Speaker and Founder of Yes You Can Speak, a San Francisco Bay Area-based public speaking educational business empowering thousands of professionals to take command of whatever stage they've been given - from job interviews, boardroom talks to TEDx and large conference platforms. Lynn was chosen as the official TEDx Berkeley speaker coach for the last four years and has worked with executives at Google, Facebook, Intuit, Genentech, Intel, VMware, and others. There are 11 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 1,152,028 times.

Giving your valedictorian or graduation speech at the end of your time at high school is both an exciting and sometimes daunting task, and it is one that most speech givers relish. Its aim is to provide a persuasive, moving, and ultimately uplifting speech. You want to give your listeners a fond farewell to high school, and also inspire them to go out and achieve greatness. That's quite a task for a speech giver in just one address. You can do it, though, as long as you plan and prepare your address before you get up to speak.

Planning Your Speech

• Steve Jobs at Stanford in 2005
• J.K. Rowling at Harvard in 2008
• David Foster Wallace at Kenyon in 2009

• “Find and follow your passion”
• “You do not need to be perfect”
• “If you think and believe you can, you can”
• “Try selflessness and give back”

• Your outline should include multiple parts, sections, and subsections.

• Note any themes or trends amongst the students. Find the most common and important ones, and stick with those.
• Don't forget the smaller memories and lesser-known stories. Mentioning them during your speech will help make those people feel noticed.

• If you aren’t sure how your speech will go, think about if you were listening to it. Is this the kind of speech you would like to hear at your graduation? [5] X Trustworthy Source University of North Carolina Writing Center UNC's on-campus and online instructional service that provides assistance to students, faculty, and others during the writing process Go to source
• If you’re not sure you would enjoy it, your fellow students probably won’t either.

• Talk to your principal or teachers to get a sense of how much time you have. If they don’t have good guidelines, 5 to 10 minutes should be more than enough.
• The average speaker reads about 120 words in a minute. That is a little less than 1 page of double-spaced,16-point font, which you’ll want because it is easier to read. [7] X Research source

• Keep the message short, brief and to the point. This will make it easier to remember.
• Your message does not have to be philosophical or mundane. It can be humorous.

Including Important Parts

• One way to make this more accessible to the rest of the class is to finish this section by encouraging or reminding the other graduates to thank someone too.

• One style of joke is the funny inspirational quote, like Will Rogers’s “Even if you’re on the right track, you’ll get run over if you just sit there,” or Ben Franklin’s “You will find the key to success under the alarm clock.” These clever lines can be a good start to a speech, introducing your big theme. [10] X Research source
• Look for funny stories specific to your school. These can help personalize your speech, and reference things that most of the audience will recognize. You can make fun of school construction that was “building the future one closed hallway at a time.”
• You only need to include a few jokes. This is a valedictorian speech, not an audition for your stand-up comedy career.
• Remember to write them down and rehearse them just like the rest of your speech. You don’t stumble over the punchlines or forget how they go on the big day.
• Keep it clean. Your audience will include teachers, parents, grandparents, and siblings, including your own, so make sure your jokes are appropriate for all.

• Make sure you mention specific accomplishments. Look for sports championships, awards, charity events, anything that you or your classmates accomplished during your time in high school. The more examples you can include that don’t involve you, the better. You are celebrating your whole class’ accomplishments, not just your own.

• As the valedictorian, you are probably going on to college after graduating. That may not be true for everyone in your class, so don’t forget to mention other possible avenues like getting a job or serving in the military.
• If you aren’t sure what kinds of things your classmates are doing after graduation, that’s a great thing to ask when you talk to them.

• If you don’t have a specific funny story about you or your friends, consider talking about how you’ve changed over your time in high school. Think about how you felt when you started as a freshman, how you got lost in the large school, or couldn’t reach your locker. A personal story is also a good way to add a little self-deprecating humor, as long as you are comfortable telling a story where you don’t look brilliant or cool.

• This means quotes too. One or two good quotes from famous people can be useful, as long as they relate directly to your main point. Remember that people want to hear you talk, not recite a list of famous lines.

Delivering Your Speech

• If you can, recreate the setting as much as possible. Wear your cap and gown so you will be comfortable in them, and practice at the podium or where the graduation is, if possible. The more familiar you are with the setting, the more comfortable you will be in giving your speech.

• Letting one or two tears out can be fine. You can always pass it off by blaming allergies, or make a joke about it being dusty in the room.

Sample Valedictorian Speeches

Expert Q&A

• Remember that you were picked to be valedictorian for a reason. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity, to speak as the representative of your graduating class, so give it your best. Thanks Helpful 4 Not Helpful 0
• Bring a copy of your speech. While you may be able to memorize it, practicing in front of the mirror or your friends is a bit different than speaking at the actual graduation. Even if you think you know it all by heart, you’ll want the little reminder just in case. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 0

• Avoid doing distracting things while giving your speech. This means keeping your phone off, making sure you don’t have a noisy keychain or coins in your pocket, and not chewing gum while speaking. These will make it difficult for people to hear you, and won’t keep their attention on your words. Thanks Helpful 17 Not Helpful 2
• Many high schools will review your speech before you give it to make sure you don’t touch on any controversial or inappropriate topics. It is not a good idea to submit one speech to the school, then give a completely different one as a way to get around this. Thanks Helpful 17 Not Helpful 6
• Avoid plagiarism. This is your speech, not a chance to use someone else’s. Make sure your work is original to you and your school. With so many speeches available online, it can be tempting to just copy one for yourself, but remember that will make it easy for people to catch you as well. Thanks Helpful 16 Not Helpful 7

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://personalexcellence.co/blog/graduation-speeches/
• ↑ http://writingcenter.unc.edu/handouts/speeches/
• ↑ http://onlinespeechwriting.com/how-to-write-a-valedictorian-speech-an-effective-guide.html
• ↑ Lynn Kirkham. Public Speaking Coach. Expert Interview. 20 November 2019.
• ↑ http://writingcenter.unc.edu/handouts/audience/
• ↑ https://skillpath.com/blog/hate-public-speaking
• ↑ http://blog.oup.com/2015/05/how-to-write-graduation-speech/
• ↑ https://www.bigbencomedy.com/archives/what-do-you-do-when-nobody-laughs/
• ↑ https://routinelynomadic.com/funny-inspirational-quotes/
• ↑ https://www.hawaii.edu/mauispeech/html/practicing_speeches.html
• ↑ http://www.npr.org/2010/12/06/131734718/just-breathe-body-has-a-built-in-stress-reliever

About This Article

To write a valedictorian speech, start by deciding on your theme. Choose something inspiring, like “find and follow your passion,” “you don’t need to be perfect,” or “if you think and believe you can, you can.” Then, make an outline of the speech with a few major points and a couple of jokes throughout, and plan to make your most important point at the end. Remember to thank the people who have helped your class along the way, and take time to reflect on the past. For tips on handling speech anxiety and connecting with your audience, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Valedictorian Speech: How to Write a Valedictorian Speech

So you did it! You graduated at the top of your class. Now you have to write your Valedictorian Speech. However, since this is the first (and only) time you will ever do it, you may not know exactly how to write a valedictorian speech . You are not alone. Just about every Valedictorian or Salutatorian has gone through this. You work very hard to get to the top, and now you have five minutes to educate, entertain, and inspire your classmates. And, of course, the task is so much easier because your classmates are so accepting and non-judgmental. (Yeah, right!)

Well the outline below can show you step-by-step how to write a Valedictorian Speech (or Salutatorian Speech). This is the final part of our five part series on How to Design a Presentation . In the previous posts, we have covered how to persuade an audience , best practices for a commencement speech , and wedding toast tips . So, check out any of the other posts for additional details.

A Few Tips About How to Write a Valedictorian Speech

Before you get started with your speech, it is a good idea to Create a Theme for Your Graduation Speech . Take a look at the later half of the previous post about Graduation Speeches for ideas on possible themes. Basically, the theme is the overall point or inspiration of your speech. If you start with a good theme, all of your stories, jokes, and inspirational quotes will mesh well together.

• Start with Some Humor

(This might work if you are really short or if your friends don’t really think of you as athletic.) I remember the first time that I saw an NBA game on TV. I was memorized. The players were so big, so talented, and so athletic, that I was just hooked. I remember, jumping off the couch and running to my dad and shouting, “Dad, when I grow up, I’m going to be an NBA star!” My dad just rolled his eyes and said, “Son, graduation is tomorrow night, why don’t you just work on your speech.”

(This one works well if a superhero movie was popular when you were a kid.) I remember the first time that I saw the Batman movie. He was so cool and so rich that he could spend his nights fighting crime. I knew then and there what I wanted to be when I grew up. I jumped off the couch and ran to my mom shouting, Mom, when I grow up, I’m going to be Batman.” My Mom looked me dead in the eye and said, “You graduate next week. Stop trying to get out of delivering that speech.”

Alternatively, just tell a funny story from your experience at school. These stories are easy to prepare, and they will help you reduce your nervousness when speaking. (Stories are easy because they add some humor and are easy to remember.)

• A Fun Way to Create a Kind Of Nostalgia Feel is to Recount Things Seen in the Four Years

One of the fun things about High School is the life-long memories created in these years. If you want a little inspiration, download the old Billy Joel song, “We Didn’t Start the Fire.”

For example, you might say something like… “Since we walked into this school as freshmen, we have seen smartphone apps that help people recover from strokes. A millionaire TV star was elected president. Our baseball team won district for the first time in 22 years. Mr. Jones lost a lot more hair. (I think a lot of that was as a result of the stress that I put on him. I apologize sir.) Etc.

This type of recitation is unique to a Valedictorian or Salutatorian speech. Keep in mind that, although you are the person speaking, you are really a representation of the entire class. So, the more that you help the class relive the good times, the more that they will like your speech.

• Add an Inspirational Quote Followed by a Story From Your School Experience

If you want to continue with a little more humor, you can quote a “lyrical poet” (pop star). Although by quoting a song, you can add some humor. However, if you pick a good lyric, you can make your presentation inspirational as well. For instance, if you say something like, “One of my favorite lyrical poets… Lorde, once said, ‘If your dreams don’t scare you, they aren’t big enough.'” Just make sure that the lyric is clean. (Remember, your grandma is in the audience.) Alternatively, you can pick a real inspirational quote or even a movie quote. (Just Google inspirational quote or inspirational movie quotes.) For a list of 30 song lyrics that you can choose from, visit this LifeHack article .

The most important part of this section of your speech, though is to tell a good story about your experience in school related to the quote. Although this article is about how to write a Valedictorian speech, remember that the speech is really about the entire class. So, a story that your classmates will relate to will work best. So, if you happen to use the Lorde quote, then just think about a big accomplishment of the class. Then, show how that accomplishment occurred because we dreamed big and the process was uncomfortable. So, if the baseball team won the district championship, use that. If the One-Act-Play team made it to State, then use that story. In fact, if you pick a good quote, you can use a series of some of the best accomplishments of the entire school as your evidence that the quote is true.

• End With a Call to Action

If you used the Lorde quote about dreaming big earlier in the speech, then you might end with a similar quote from a famous person. You might say something like…

Walt Disney once said, “All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.” So, class of [YEAR], go on to the next stage of your life with courage, and dream big enough so that is a little bit scary along the way!

There is No Magic in How to Write a Valedictorian Speech

Just remember that there is no magic pill that will help you create a great graduation speech. However, if you follow the steps above, the process should be easy and fun. If you use any of the tips, make sure to comment on the post or on our podcast. We’d love to hear how the process worked for you.

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How to write a great graduation speech

Sorry About That: The Language of Public Apology

• By Edwin Battistella
• May 10 th 2015

It’s graduation time at many of the nation’s schools and colleges. The commencement ceremony is a great exhalation for all involved and an annual rite of passage celebrating academic achievements. Commencement ceremonies typically feature a visiting dignitary who offers a few thousand inspirational words.

Over the years, I’ve heard more of these speeches than I care to admit and have made my own checklist of suggestions for speakers. For those of you giving commencement speeches or listening to them, here’s my advice:

1. Be just funny enough

The best speakers are knowingly wry and a bit self-deprecating. Here’s Michael Bloomberg, opening his 2014 Harvard Commencement address, with a typical opening:

I’m excited to be here, not only to address the distinguished graduates and alumni at Harvard University’s 363rd commencement but to stand in the exact spot where Oprah stood last year. OMG.

Compare that with President Kennedy, speaking at Yale in 1962, who invoked the Cambridge-New Haven rivalry to tease his hosts a bit:

Let me begin by expressing my appreciation for the very deep honor that you have conferred upon me. As General de Gaulle occasionally acknowledges America to be the daughter of Europe, so I am pleased to come to Yale, the daughter of Harvard. It might be said now that I have the best of both worlds, a Harvard education and a Yale degree.

Then again, presidents can get away with that sort of thing, but most speakers can’t.

2. Be like Shakespeare

Keep the diversity of your audience in mind. You are speaking to students, but the students are not all the same.  There are honor students—summa, magna, and cum laude–as well as those who are still sweating out a few grades. You are also speaking to families and to the university faculty.  Shakespeare had that same problem—needing to address those in the Lord’s room, the galleries, and the ground pit. He solved it by repeating himself, expressing ideas in both the Latinate phrases and in plain Anglo-Saxon, as when he combined unfamiliar words like incarnadine with familiar ones like red .

Here is Ellen DeGeneres, giving the commencement speech at Tulane in 2009. Talking about the honorary degree she is receiving, she plays with the languages of her audience:

I thought that you had to be a famous alumnus – alumini – aluminum – alumis – you had to graduate from this school.

She speaks to both the people who are not quite sure of the singular of alumni , and to those who are.

3. Think about bite-sized ideas

Your speech is likely to come up as a topic of discussion later in the day at lunch or dinner, if only to deflect attention from other topics like job interviews and loan repayment. What will the different audiences take away from your speech? What will students say when Grandma asks, “So what did you think of the speaker?”

As you develop your theme, try to have a memorable, quotable line for each segment of your audience—the grads, the families, and the faculty. And remember that your audience can’t rewind your speech or mark it with a yellow highlighter, so be sure to illustrate your easily-recognizable theme with smaller, easily-digestable examples.

Neil de Grasse Tyson did this in his 2012 speech at Western New England University.  His theme was the prevalence of fuzzy thinking and the desire for choices rather than fresh thought. He touched on the theme repeatedly, with examples ranging from a lunch date with his sister, to a spelling bee, to a job interview, throwing in an allusion to Plato (for the faculty) and ending up with the point that thinking is painful hard work. Journalist Sharyn Alfonsi also did it in her commencement address to the journalism school at Ole Miss in 2013, as she talked about work and perseverance, and illustrated those values through her own career’s challenges, including job applications, tough days, and bad bosses. Choose examples that everyone can relate to and can talk about over lunch.

4. Avoid the “Real World” and other clichés

Be careful when using clichés in your speech. Tempting as it may be to tell the graduates that they are about to enter the “Real World” (where you have thrived), you should avoid that. Savvy students will see you as out of touch, since many of them have been working all along and are often managing any number of real life issues.

You may want to avoid talking about the value of their education as well. They know the value. That’s why they went to college. (It’s the cost they are worried about.)

And don’t tell them they are going to die. What if someone had just died on campus? Steve Jobs could get away with talking about death at Stanford in 2005 (“And yet death is the destination we all share”), but he had cheated death at the time.

On a rare occasion, though, you can subvert the clichés. Jon Stewart, speaking at William and Mary in 2004, presents the so-called “Real World” this way:

Let’s talk about the “Real World” for a moment… I don’t really know to put this, so I’ll be blunt: we broke it… But here’s the good news: you fix this thing, you’re the next greatest generation, people.

David Foster Wallace took the liberal arts cliché by the horns in his 2005 speech at Kenyon College, telling the audience:

So let’s talk about the single most pervasive cliché in the commencement speech genre, which is that a liberal arts education is not so much about filling you up with knowledge as it is about “teaching you how to think.”

Wallace then used that to suggest a new perspective—that education is about choosing what to think about.

And screenwriter Joss Whedon, of Buffy the Vampire Slayer fame, tricked up the death theme at Wesleyan in 2013, opening with a reference to the horror genre and the live-life-to-the-fullest cliché:

What I’d like to say to all of you is that you are all going to die.

5. Keep it short

Unless you are a national leader using the speech to announce a major policy, you won’t need more than 20 minutes, tops. Twelve minutes would be even better. The average speaker reads about 120 words a minute, so that’s about 1,400-2,400 words or 9-15 pages (double spaced, 16 point font). Sitting in the sun, the students, families, and faculty will all appreciate brevity.

Here is Poet Laureate Billy Collins speaking at Colorado College in 2008:

I am going to speak for 13 minutes. I think you deserve to know that this will be a finite experience. It is well-known in the world of public speaking that there is no pleasure you can give an audience that compares to the pleasure they get when it is over, so you can look forward to experiencing that pleasure 13 minutes from now.

One of the most memorable commencement addresses at my institution was given by a retired speech professor, Leon Mulling. It was just one-minute long, consisted entirely of verbs (Go. Do. Create. Laugh. Love. Live . ) and received thunderous applause.

6. Above all: relax and enjoy yourself

To do well as a commencement speaker, you need gentle humor, Shakespearean universal accessibility, something memorable for each audience, both a theme and relatable examples, an awareness of clichés, and brevity. And if it makes you nervous to think that college graduates, families, faculty, and even YouTube will be scoring your speech, remember—there’ll be another commencement speaker up on the stage next year.

Image Credit: “Graduation Day” by Md saad andalib. CC BY 2.0 via Flickr .

Edwin L. Battistella teaches linguistics and writing at Southern Oregon University in Ashland, where he has served as a dean and as interim provost. He is the author of Sorry About That: The Language of Public Apology  (OUP, 2014),  Do You Make These Mistakes in English? (OUP, 2009), Bad Language (OUP, 2005), and The Logic of Markedness (OUP, 1996).

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Recent Comments

Very good advice and a fun article to read. My graduation speaker 45 years ago was the president of an African country and he spoke about something relating to Africa. It was memorable. The “it” was the weather that afternoon. It was hot and humid and the gowns were an extra layer on top of regular clothes. Oh, the campus political environment was also memorable. I wore an “equal” sign stenciled on a white cloth armband, urging equal admissions of men and women; the university was concerned that admitting more women would reduce long term importance of the college (useless nonworking women) plus eventual lower alumni donations. Oh, yes, and there was Carling Black Label beer at the reception afterward, chosen because it was donated by an alumnus. My father attended. My girlfriend’s parents were there, watching her graduate, and they had some suspicions about us, but thought we were being really careful. Yeah, that was pretty much it.

I loved it thanks

Really good

I will be a commencement speaker this spring at a Pennsylvania university and I thought your article was a great start for me as I prepare. Thanks!

Comments are closed.

10 Steps For Writing An Unforgettable Graduation Speech

• Pick A Theme
• Begin With Gratitude
• Motivational Quotes
• Get Personal
• Add Your Personality
• Avoid Cliches
• Create A Call To Action

School is almost out, but for many students, there’s one more major task to complete before summer: graduation. Whether you’re graduating from high school or earning a college degree, a graduation ceremony is a huge milestone. And, if you’ve been asked to speak at graduation, you might be feeling the pressure right now.

Graduation speeches of all kinds date back to at least the 1600s, and though a lot has changed since then, these kinds of speeches still contain similar key elements that help make them effective, inspiring, and something every graduating student and their loved ones look forward to.

Public speaking can be nerve-racking in any setting, particularly when you know the audience is filled with people’s cousins and grandparents who are likely to remember this day forever, but fear not! We’re here to help with these 10 key steps to follow to write and deliver a truly unforgettable graduation speech.

1. Pick a theme.

If you want the audience to feel moved and inspired by your speech (Who doesn’t, right?), then it helps to build your speech around a central theme or message. Think about what’s important to you as the speaker and what you’d like others to take away from your words. Once you have a theme, it will be easier to select the quotes and anecdotes that tie back to that central idea and create a speech that leaves your audience in awe.

🎓 Here are some popular themes to consider:

• Embracing failure.
• Overcoming adversity.
• The importance of having big dreams.
• Facing change with grace.
• Taking responsibility for your future.
• Learning from past mistakes.
• The importance of friendship.
• Becoming a lifelong learner.

2. Begin with gratitude.

When you step up to the mic on graduation day, you’ll need to begin with a few formalities. First, thank the previous speakers, as well as everyone in attendance. Then, express your feelings about the privilege of being asked to address the audience on this momentous occasion. Go ahead and write this part down so you don’t forget to do it on the big day. Here are some examples:

Thank you, [name of previous speaker], and thank you, friends, family, faculty, and fellow graduates for being here today. It’s an honor to celebrate this milestone with you as your valedictorian.

Thank you, [name of previous speaker]. Graduates, loved ones, and distinguished faculty members, it is an honor to be here with you today. I’m so grateful to [name of school or university] for the privilege of being your [type of speaker].

3. Use a motivational quote.

The greatest commencement speeches typically include a motivational quote, whether it’s from a famous person, a beloved teacher, or something your grandfather taught you. The right motivational quote will tie into your theme and serve as a thesis statement for the message you hope the audience will take from your words. Consider these celebrity quotes from other powerful commencement speeches:

“Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be trapped by dogma, which is living with the results of other people’s thinking. Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice.” — Steve Jobs , Stanford University, 2005

“You must lead. You’re never too young to lead. You’re never too old to lead. We need your leadership now more than ever before.” — John Lewis , Harvard, 2018

“The day you graduate, you do not arrive. This is not the end. This is the beginning for you. To graduate is to change gradually.” — Rita Moreno , Northeastern Illinois University, 2015

“Ultimately, your life is made up of moments. So don’t miss them by being lost in the past or anticipating the future.” — Jessica Lange , Sarah Lawrence College, 2008

“You are full of complexities and wonders that haven’t even begun to surface. Life’s unpredictability will draw these out and what defines you now will be mere shades and hues of a more vibrant you over the next five, 10, 50 years. Honestly, I can’t think of anything more liberating than that, knowing that life will look differently than you think it will.” — Octavia Spencer , Kent State University, 2017

4. Get personal.

When Conan O’Brien delivered the commencement speech at Dartmouth University in 2011, he talked about being fired from his dream job and what that failure taught him. Some lauded it as one of the best graduation speeches of all time.

Sharing personal anecdotes, even ones that mention failures or humiliations, is a powerful way to connect with your audience and drive your message home in a personal way. When writing your speech, draw on your experiences as a student and be clear about how those experiences shaped and prepared you for what lies ahead.

Learn how to a sensational graduation card here.

5. Infuse your personality.

Graduation speeches may follow a formula, but that doesn’t mean they need to be boring! Use your personal sense of humor, unique story, and life experiences to give the speech character and charm. What does this look like in action?

In 2016, author John Green brought levity to his commencement speech when shared with the graduating class at Kenyon College that the best life advice he ever got was, “You’re a good kid, but you need to learn when to stop talking.”

At the University of Virginia in 2016, late night host Stephen Colbert joked that people should leave their cell phones on because “I wouldn’t want you to miss a text or a tweet while I’m giving my speech.”

You may not be a famous comedian or author, but being uniquely yourself can help your speech shine.

6. Reflect, then look ahead.

You and the rest of your graduating class are sharing a major life milestone, and you’ve all worked hard to get to this point. What has life been like during your years in school? What experiences have you shared, and how have those shaped you as people moving forward into the next phase of your life?

In your speech, include real-life examples of the things you’ve faced in your time as students. Put those events in context in your life, and remind your audience that you have all learned so much more than just what was on the course syllabi.

7. Avoid clichés

The tricky part of writing a graduation speech is being inspiring without resorting to clichés. If you use personal anecdotes and weave personality into your speech, it’s unlikely that you’ll fall back on tired, overused statements. But, sometimes they still sneak in. If that’s the case, try to swap them out with a fresher take.

Here are some ideas:

• Instead of talking about the “real world” as a future destination, talk about how you already live there and you’re ready for whatever life throws at you.
• Instead of defining a typical graduation word (like courage or future ), talk about the words that come to mind when you think about school and what they mean to you.
• Instead of talking about what you’re “leaving behind,” talk about what lessons and people you’re taking with you.

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8. Create a call to action.

Graduation speeches serve two important purposes: celebrating everything that came before graduation day and building excitement for everything that will come after it. The easiest way to leave people inspired is to include a call to action. This doesn’t mean providing strict instructions for some task they must complete. Think of it more as broad instructions for how to meet the challenges ahead.

Your call to action should restate the theme of your speech and give the audience a clear takeaway message to carry with them. Need some examples? We have a few:

“Whatever you want to do, do it now. For life is time, and time is all there is.” — Gloria Steinem , Tufts University, 1987

“Let excellence be your brand.” — Oprah Winfrey , Spelman College, 2012

“Fight for the job you want, fight for the people who mean the most to you and fight for the kind of world you want to live in.” — Elizabeth Warren , Suffolk University, 2016

9. Keep it brief.

While you surely have a lot of great things to say, no one wants to sit through a 12-page speech. Graduation ceremonies are already long, and the audience is usually asked to listen to multiple speeches. Keep this in mind, and say what you’d like to say in the briefest way possible. Aim for a speech that falls between 500 and 750 words, and time yourself to make sure you don’t exceed 10 minutes during delivery.

10. Practice, practice, practice.

The only way to ensure your speech flows, makes sense, and holds people’s attention is to practice reading it out loud. Practice by yourself in front of a mirror, being careful to notice and edit any places where you trip over words or have awkward pauses. Once you’ve perfected the solo read-aloud, ask a parent or friend to serve as an audience. This will help you test out your jokes and polish your anecdotes based on their reactions. By graduation day, you’ll be ready to take to the stage like a pro.

Need more inspiration? These graduation quotes should do the trick.

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Graduation Speech Writing

Brainstorm Ideas and Themes

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• “Truth be told, I never graduated from college, and this is the closest I’ve ever gotten to a college graduation. Today, I want to tell you three stories from my life. That’s it, no big deal. Just three stories.” -Steve Jobs, Stanford 2005
• “Good morning graduates, families and friends of graduates, mothers, fathers, brothers, brothers from other mothers, sisters, roommates, “roommates”, grandmas and grandpas, mee-maws and papaws, bubbies and nannas, and bappas, Nani Gee-Gees and their special friend Herb, Aunt Ronis, Uncle Garys, and people who met on Tinder this morning.” -Maya Rudolph, Tulane 2015

Tie the Conclusion to Your Theme

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Speech Writing

Graduation Speech

Crafting the Perfect Graduation Speech: A Guide with Examples

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Have you ever stood at the threshold of a new journey, feeling a mix of excitement and uncertainty? 

Well, if you're a soon-to-be graduate, that's probably exactly how you're feeling right now.

The big day is coming, and you're wondering, 'How will I write my speech? Can I ask for speech writing help?

Don’t worry!

In this blog, we're going to tell you how to write a graduation speech for students. Get ready to discover the secrets of crafting a graduation speech that not only captures your audience's attention but also leaves a profound impact on your fellow graduates.

Let's transform that uncertainty into inspiration and confidence as we delve into the art of delivering a speech that will make your graduation day truly unforgettable.

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That's our Job!

• 1. What is a Graduation Speech?
• 2. How to Write a Graduation Speech?
• 3. Graduation Speeches From Notable Figures 
• 4. Graduation Speech Examples for Students 
• 5. Graduation Speech Ideas - 2023
• 6. Graduation Speech Writing Tips 

What is a Graduation Speech?

A graduation speech is the heart of your big day, bringing together all your experiences and achievements. 

It's more than just talking – it's a way to inspire and celebrate. It's not just a tradition. This type of speech is a chance to share what you've learned and dream about the future.

Your graduation speech should include everyone – your friends, the tough times you all faced, and the good times you shared. 

Elements of Graduation Speech

Creating a memorable graduation speech involves several key elements that can help you connect with your audience and make a lasting impression. 

Here are the crucial elements you should consider:

All these elements make a strong and memorable speech and help make your graduation successful.

How to Write a Graduation Speech?

Writing an inspirational graduation speech that stands out isn't as daunting as it may seem. 

With a structured approach and a dash of creativity, you can deliver the best special occasion speech that leaves a lasting impact on your audience. 

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to start a graduation speech and create an inspiring address:

Begin with a Memorable Opening 

Start with an attention-grabbing quote, a personal anecdote, or a thought-provoking question. 

This sets the tone for your speech and captures your audience's interest right from the beginning.

Express Gratitude 

Show appreciation to your teachers, parents, and fellow students. 

Express how their support and contributions have been instrumental in your academic journey. This sets a positive and grateful tone for your speech.

Reflect on Meaningful Moments 

Share personal stories and school experiences that have had a significant impact on your life and the lives of your classmates. 

Use these anecdotes to connect with your audience emotionally.

Offer Words of Inspiration 

Provide words of inspiration and motivation. Encourage your fellow graduates to embrace the future with confidence and courage.

Use stories or quotes to illustrate your points.

Share Practical Advice 

Share life lessons and any advice you've learned during your academic journey. 

Offer insights related to pursuing goals, overcoming challenges, and maintaining a positive outlook on life.

Emphasize Unity and Shared Experiences 

Highlight the importance of unity and the bonds formed with your classmates. 

Emphasize the strength of collective experiences and friendships that have been a significant part of your school life.

Discuss Hopes and Dreams 

Talk about your hopes and dreams for the future, both for yourself and your fellow graduates. Paint a vivid picture of the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.

End with an Inspiring Conclusion 

Conclude your speech with a memorable message that resonates with your audience. 

Leave them with a lasting impression or a call to action that inspires them to take on the future with enthusiasm.

Graduation Speeches From Notable Figures 

Notable figures, from celebrities to accomplished professionals, often deliver inspiring graduation speeches, sharing their wisdom, experiences, and advice with the graduates. 

In this section, we explore some remarkable graduation speeches that have left a lasting impact on audiences worldwide.

Taylor Swift Graduation Speech 

Taylor Swift, the renowned singer-songwriter, delivered an inspiring graduation speech that emphasized embracing change and authenticity. 

Her words have motivated graduates worldwide, making her speech a source of valuable life lessons.

“The times I was told no or wasn’t included, wasn’t chosen, didn’t win, didn’t make the cut…looking back, it really feels like those moments were as important, if not more crucial, than the moments I was told ‘yes.’ …” 

Watch complete graduation speech here: 

Rory Gilmore Graduation Speech 

Rory Gilmore, a beloved fictional character from the TV series "Gilmore Girls," delivered a heartwarming graduation speech that celebrated the value of hard work, ambition, and the pursuit of dreams. 

Her speech remains an iconic moment in the series and a testament to the power of perseverance and ambition.

Watch her graduation speech here:

Ree Drummond - Oklahoma State University 

Ree Drummond, known as "The Pioneer Woman," shared her insights and wisdom in a graduation speech delivered in 2022. 

Her address offers a unique perspective on life, success, and the pursuit of dreams, making it a valuable resource for graduates seeking inspiration and guidance as they set out on their own paths.

Listen to the complete speech in this video:

Steve Jobs - 2005 

Steve Jobs' iconic 2005 commencement speech at Stanford University delivered invaluable life lessons and inspiration. 

His words continue to resonate with graduates and individuals worldwide, offering timeless guidance on pursuing one's passions and creating a meaningful life.

Check out his complete speech in this video: 

Graduation Speech Examples for Students 

Looking for inspiration for your own graduation speech? Here is a short graduation speech:

Read some more diverse graduation speech samples to spark your creativity:

Graduation Speech for Kindergarten - Example

Short Graduation Speech

Graduation Speech for Kids

Graduation Speech For Primary 6

8th Grade Graduation Speech

High School Graduation Speech

Explore a collection of inspiring graduation speeches, each offering a unique perspective on this momentous occasion.

Graduation Speech by Students - Example

Graduation Speech for Parents - Example

Graduation Speech by Teacher - Example

Graduation Speech by Principal- Example

Graduation Speech Thanking Teachers

Graduation Speech Ideas - 2023

Here are some interesting and fun graduation speech ideas.

• Talk about a current school event.
• Try something new like poetry or metaphors to make your speech interesting.
• Tell a story about your class, for example, ‘what was the driving force of the class of 2021?’
• Use quotes from famous and classic books.
• Use lyrics from the class anthem.
• Be inspirational and share an inspirational story.
• Share a humorous experience.
• Convey a memorable message.
• If appropriate, add a song with meaning.
• Appreciate a fellow classmate or a teacher.
• Connect your speech with your 1st day at school.
• Significant events that took place in the school.
• A professor that made you fall in love with a major subject.
• The long time you spent in the school library and how it impacted your interactions with other students.
• Tell me about who inspired you the most in your life.

Graduation Speech Writing Tips 

Crafting a memorable graduation speech can be a rewarding yet challenging task. Here are some essential tips to help you write an impactful and engaging speech for your big day:

• Know Your Audience: Understanding your audience is crucial to tailor your speech effectively.
• Start Strong: An attention-grabbing beginning sets the tone for your speech.
• Tell Personal Stories: Personal anecdotes and experiences create a meaningful connection.
• Inspire and Motivate: Your speech should encourage confidence about the future.
• Share Practical Advice: Offering practical life advice adds value to your speech.
• Embrace Humor: Appropriately used humor can engage your audience.
• Be Concise: Keeping your speech at an appropriate length is essential to maintain interest.
• Practice and Rehearse: Preparation ensures confidence in your delivery.
• End on a High Note: A memorable conclusion leaves a lasting impression.

As you take that first step forward, congratulations on your graduation, and we wish you the best of luck in whatever comes next. We hope this graduation speech guide has given you some pointers for what to say in your speech.

If you need further help, you can avail of our assistance and get your speech before the big day.

At MyPerfectWords.com , one of the best " write my essay services ", we help new graduates make their day memorable by delivering quality speeches.

Buy speech from us and get ready to shine.

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Dr. Barbara is a highly experienced writer and author who holds a Ph.D. degree in public health from an Ivy League school. She has worked in the medical field for many years, conducting extensive research on various health topics. Her writing has been featured in several top-tier publications.

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Table of Contents

How to write a graduation speech .

Writing a graduation speech can be daunting. It’s natural to want to give the best speech possible to commemorate such an important milestone in your life. But How to write a graduation speech that is worthy of the day?

This page will be a comprehensive step-by-step guide for how to write a graduation speech that inspires and motivates. It will walk you through everything you need to know, how to write a graduation speech that leaves your audience teary-eyed. 

At the end of this page, I have written a sample graduation speech using this guide. 

I have spent days asking how to write the perfect graduation speech. I remember the banging of my head on my desk in frustration when I was preparing for my graduation speech. The reason for this paranoia was that I too, just like everyone else, wanted to give the best speech possible to commemorate such an important milestone of my life. 

The amount of time and energy I had spent in preparation for my graduation speech prompted me to put up this page. 

So here it is:

LET’S UNPACK with the No. 1 problem in How to write a graduation speech? 

The number 1 problem which everyone faces when setting out to write a graduation speech is where to start?

Well naturally before you start preparing your speech you will need to know what you want to talk about. You can call this a theme, a topic, an idea, or the subject of your speech. At this stage, it can be a one-liner or even a word that describes what you want to talk about. 

Again I know it is easier said than done. That’s why I have listed some approaches to help you figure out the topic of your graduation speech.

There are different approaches you can go by, but I will write a few which helped me.

How to find the subject of your graduation speech?

How to write a graduation speech around your core beliefs..

The first place I will recommend you to look for inspiration is your core beliefs. If you very strongly believe in something then talk about it. This could be what you stand for. Or what you will always stand for? Or what do you advocate? Maybe these beliefs are human rights protection, prevention of female objectification, and child labor, or maybe you believe in socialism or the importance of family structure.

The idea behind talking about your core beliefs is that you are genuinely passionate about them, and you will most likely have enough to talk about them. 

How to write a graduation speech based on Timeline.

I like to call this a timeline-based approach in deciding what to talk about during your graduation speech. Evident by the name you will pick up a moment or time and will talk about that time and how great or challenging that period was in your life. 

You can pick a period from your past to describe a challenge or a beauty of it and how it impacted your life and what lesson it has for others as well. 

You can pick a goal in the future which you want to accomplish and what motivates you in selecting this goal and how it will impact your life or people at large. 

To help you better understand, I have listed some examples. These examples sound generic but the actual events which happened to you will be unique for your audience. 

For the past based graduation speech, some ideas are: 

• A problem you faced to get to this position

• You had a certain difficulty, but you didn’t give up

• You faced trauma but still, you graduated or accomplished a goal.  

• What drove you, who motivated you, who built your passion, who never lost hope in you, who built your character and gave you confidence?

• What was your journey to get to this point?

• What took you to get here? 

• What were your expectations?

Remember: The purpose is not to tell your biography or how great you are. The purpose is to inspire with the underlying qualities which kept you going.

If you don’t want your speech to be sentimental you can always talk about:

• How fun your experience was

• How you will miss partying 

• How greatly have you lived your life here

• How amazing your friends, teachers, and institute were.

• How helpful everyone’s contribution was in your graduation. 

• You can go with funny events or can make very light fun at the expense of the audience. (Never insult.) 

• How has this time here changed you into a better person?

• How do you overcome your shortfalls

These are some past-based graduation theme approaches. Similarly, you can decide to talk about the future:

• Your goals

• Your optimism and how you plan to change the world.

• You always dream to follow your passion, and now you are one step closer

• You have an ideal personality who inspired you; now you can follow the lead.

• How you will miss this time, place, and people. 

• How you have learned to dream big and now explore

• No one is perfect, how you make mistakes, you will keep making mistakes, but this place taught you how to learn lessons from mistakes. 

• You look forward to stepping into the world.

• How guest of honor is your ideal and why do you appreciate them and want to follow the lead?

These are some of the examples I call a time-based approach in deciding how to write your graduation speech. 

Note: you don’t have to pick only one. You can relate a past event to achieve a future goal. 

How to write a graduation speech based on characteristics of value.

This one is simple really. When I was deciding how to write my graduation speech I came across this approach. In this approach of deciding your graduation speech theme, you can pick a characteristic and talk about it. In this case, you pick a characteristic value, and you start building your thoughts around it. 

• Value of Truth

• Importance of love

• Need of Courage

• Humbleness in sacrifice

• Lessons in failures

• Struggle for passion 

• Never giving up

How to write a graduation speech on the beauty of your passion. 

Here you find anything you are good at. It doesn’t have to be some sophisticated idea or any well-praised concept. It can be anything you are good at. 

It could be: 

• Any creative idea

• Participation in social causes

• Spirituality

• Gardening

Maybe you are passionate about gaming, or you have an interest in building stuff, or you like to experiment, or you have a sense of empathy and want to participate in social causes, or you have a knack for health and well-being. 

The point is it could be anything you like to do, which gives you happiness or a sense of fulfillment. You have to find out the good sides of this passion and talk about it. Link your source of happiness to real-world scenarios.

I mean there is a legendary speech about making a bed every day and how this one task is so great. 

How to write a graduation speech on delivering a point or argument.

The last approach I would recommend is delivering a point approach. Here you decide an end goal of your speech first then you build your argument around that goal. You have seen something wrong, or you would like some practice to change. Or in your view, a certain thing is not value-added but time-consuming or a method is not creative but laborious, and you would like it to change. 

You get the idea of what I am talking about. You may want to talk about human rights, and freedom of speech, you want to sound an alarm and talk about the environment, or you want to talk about any other modern-day problem. 

Here you have a point which you want to make. You will build your speech around that point. For example, you believe that home assignments are a waste of time. 

These are some approaches you can use to decide what you want to talk about. You can be creative and mix them or stick to one area. 

Now that you have your main idea, let’s start planning your graduation speech.

The planning stage of how to write a graduation speech.

Before you start writing your graduation speech there are some factors you need to know and understand when you are planning to write your graduation speech. We will figure those out during the planning process of the graduation speech together. 

Time and place

What time is your speech.

The first thing you need to know is which day, and where you will be delivering your speech. Usually the place of your graduation ceremony. It may be on campus grounds or in any other venue. 

But you need to know the time in a different context as well. 

Here you formally need to know at least three times for your graduation speech. Write that down for your reference. 

• First: Obviously what time is the speech?

• Second: how much time is allotted to your speech?

• Third: how much time do you have until your speech? 

How much time is allotted to you? 

You need to know how much time is allotted to your speech. You need to know that to prepare your speech. You need to know to create enough material to cover that time slot. Not too short, not too long.

My rule of thumb is at the planning stage when you are writing a rough draft for your speech your draft should have enough material to cover at least double the allotted time. You will need to consult with the organizers or graduation committee about how much time is allocated to you?  

How long should a graduation speech be?

Ideally, a graduation speech should be between 5 and 7 minutes long. That’s just enough time to deliver some inspiring words without dragging on (or putting your audience to sleep!).

Of course, each situation is different. If you’re the valedictorian or salutatorian, you may have a little more time to speak. And if you’re speaking at a smaller graduation ceremony, your speech may be shorter.

No matter how long your speech is, make sure you spend some time thinking about what you want to say. A well-written and well-delivered speech can be a memorable way to end your time as a student and start your new chapter as a graduate!

How much time do you have to prepare for your graduation speech?

The third and most important one is to know how much time you have for planning. You know this by allocating your time to your daily most important tasks. 

Know the Audience

This is tricky and an important factor to know before you write your graduation speech. Audiences come in all shapes and sizes. Know your audience before you start talking so that they feel welcome at the ceremony. You need to know who you will be addressing during your graduation speech. 

The common attendees are:

• Graduates

• Top students

• Faculty 

• And special guests

But keep in mind that among the audience all these people can also be 

• Media Personalities

• Influencers

• Potential employers

• Govt. officials

• Ethnic or minority groups

Beware of those who are attending, You don’t want to sound insensitive or hurt someone or a group of people’s feelings. For example, with a religious audience, you don’t want to talk against religion. Or might want to omit any jokes about physical features, or people with disability conditions if you have the same people in your audience. 

The second important thing to know about your audience is that you do not want to be specific to a small group of people. People of all ages and beliefs can be there, so avoid making specific cultural references to target only a small group of people. Instead, talk in broad general terms. 

There could be potential employers among the audience. You don’t want to sound cocky or to be remembered as arrogant. I mean it is entirely possible that a month later you are attending an interview and find out that the interviewer knows you already from your graduation speech with a bad impression. 

Tone when delivering your graduation speech.

This is important to know and decide. What will be your tone of speech? Do you want to sound formal or informal? Passive or assertive? Passionate or optimistic? Humorous or serious or do you want to keep it conservative or motivating? 

This might sound overwhelming but it is not. A lot of this has to do with the theme of the speech.  What I suggest is to choose according to your personality. Do you like to convey your message through humor or are you an optimistic person? But whatever you choose please keep it consistent. 

Having said that When practicing your graduation speech, it is a good suggestion to keep the tone upbeat. This is a time to celebrate the accomplishments of the graduates, so the speech should be motivating and inspirational. 

However, it is also important to be respectful and sincere. The graduation speech is an opportunity to thank the teachers, staff, and administrators who have helped the graduates along the way. It is also a chance to offer some advice and words of wisdom to the graduating class or future graduates. Whatever tone is used, it should be genuine and reflect the speaker’s excitement for the future of the graduates.

Avoid Cliches during your graduation speech

The Next thing in your planning stage is to avoid cliche. Everything has a place and time. Not everything should be said at all sittings. You might want to go political, or you might want to go activist. Even Though nothing is wrong with it, you don’t want your whole speech blaming others. 

In my opinion, if you can avoid it please do avoid it. The reason is not to discourage you from speaking up regarding social issues, but the reason is you just “graduated”. You have a diverse, more senior audience in front of you. Do, if you have to, refer to a certain issue or show your commitment towards it. But please do not give a lecture to your audience and make them feel responsible. You just freshly graduated and most likely you have not done anything substantial to change the problem you are talking about. 

Some other cliches are:

1. “This is the best day of my life!”

While it’s certainly an exciting time, your graduation isn’t necessarily the best day of your life. There are many other great days ahead, so try to avoid this clichéd line.

2. “Follow your dreams!”

This is another well-meaning but overused piece of advice. While it’s important to have dreams and goals, be realistic about what you can achieve.

3. “You’re the future!”

This may be true, but it’s also a bit daunting. Instead of putting pressure on yourself, try to focus on enjoying the present moment.

4. “It’s not goodbye, see you later!”

This may be the case for some people, but others are moving on to new chapters in their lives. Don’t try to force a sentimental moment if it doesn’t feel genuine.

5. “You’re going to change the world!”

This is a lot of pressure to put on someone. Instead, encourage your fellow graduates to focus on making a positive impact in their communities.

By avoiding these clichés, you can make your graduation speech more unique and personal. Instead of giving empty platitudes, focus on sharing your own experiences and lessons learned. This will make your speech more meaningful and memorable for both you and your audience. 

Distribution of your graduation speech

One thing which you need to consider is that your speech will be part of the record. It might be printed in a college journal, yearbook, or newspaper and will most definitely be recorded. It will be part of the internet or your collection. It is such a prestigious opportunity that you would want these words to be simple but memorable. You don’t want to waste this opportunity just for being funny or by roasting your friends or school. 

Be very careful if you are using facts and quotes in your graduation speech.

Make sure that you know your facts and stats if you are using them in your speech. Make sure you know the authenticity and origin of quotes if you are using them. Make sure you attribute the quotes and facts to the right person or institute.  

Start your graduation speech With a hook statement.

You only have a few minutes to make an impression, so you’ll want to start strong! Grab your audience’s attention with a compelling story, quote, or statistic related to the topic of your speech. Idea is to use bait to hook your audience with you throughout your speech. They would want to know how your story will relate to what you are saying. 

P.S – Hook statements are super fun, super engaging and can really turn the mood of the audience. This is a quality everyone should know regardless of this particular context of graduation speech. This article of American express explains it beautifully with examples.

A video example of using a hook statement.

An excellent example of this is this speech. 2015 World Champion: ‘The Power of Words’ Mohammed Qahtani, Toastmasters International

Note how the speaker’s first words and actions hooked the audience before he said a single word.

Write your graduation speech as You Talk

One of the biggest mistakes people make when writing speeches is trying to sound overly formal or ‘preachy’. Remember, this is YOUR graduation speech—it should reflect YOUR unique voice and perspective. It should bring out your persona.

Use Personal anecdotes in your graduation speech.

A great way to connect with your audience is by sharing personal stories or anecdotes that illustrate the main point of your speech. For example, if you’re giving a speech about resilience, you could share a story about a time when you faced adversity and how you ultimately overcame it. Just be sure not to make your stories too long—remember, you want to keep things concise! 

A video example of using personal anecdotes.

Watch this video for a brilliant speech and notice how the speaker used little personal experiences to draw conclusions and delivered his speech brilliantly.

End your graduation speech on a High Note 

Just like you want to start strong, you’ll also want to end strong! Leave your audience with something memorable—a call-to-action, inspirational quote, or final thought that sums up the main point of your speech perfectly. 

Edit, Edit, Edit!  

Once you have a draft of your speech written out, take some time to edit it for grammar errors and clarity issues. Then, ask a friend or family member to read it aloud, so you can get feedback on how it flows and sounds before delivering it on graduation day! 

Alternate the source of information

The fact is you are not the first person to give the graduation speech and most likely will not be the last person ever. Hundreds before you have been to the place where you are now. They had to prepare for their graduation speech and where did they go for inspiration or to get the idea? 

The same place where you are, The Internet. 

The point is most of the things which are on the internet have been said and done. Most of the stories have been told, and most of the quotes have been said. So what should you do? 

Change the source. 

Get your inspiration from another source. From a real event, an incident, a book you like, a poem you used to sing, or a song stuck in your head. Anything which no one has thought about. 

One of the great sources of inspiration for me is my older relatives, Grandparents, or uncle. Take a break, sit with them, and listen to their stories. They have lived years of more life than you. You can simply let them talk about their golden days or ask them specifically about an idea.  

The good news is that there are plenty of places to look for inspiration when it comes to writing a graduation speech. Here are just a few of them:

Your life up to this point: 

One of the best places to start when it comes to writing a graduation speech is by looking back at your life up to this point. What have been some of the biggest highlights? What lessons have you learned along the way?

Your future goals: 

Another great source of inspiration for your graduation speech is to look ahead at your future goals. What do you hope to accomplish in the next phase of your life? How can you inspire others to pursue their dreams?

Your favorite quotes: 

Another great way to get inspiration for your graduation speech is to look at some of your favorite quotes. Whether it’s a motivational saying or something more lighthearted, a great quote can often capture the essence of what you want to say in your speech.

Your favorite books: 

If you’re a reader, then one of the best places to look for inspiration for your graduation speech is in your favorite books. What messages do they convey that you feel are significant for your fellow graduates to hear?

Your favorite movies: 

Like books, movies can also be a great source of inspiration for your graduation speech. What scenes or dialogue from your favorite films can you use, to illustrate the points you want to make in your speech?

These are just a few of the many places you can turn to when you’re looking for inspiration. 

So here we are. We have our main theme. We have the necessary attributes for our speech. It is time to brainstorm and put words on paper. 

The way I recommend is that I divide the speech into a set formatted structure. 

Structure of Graduation speech

Just like any speech, I divide the speech into three main parts. 

1. Introduction

·         Acknowledgement

·         Hook statement

·         Transition

·         Main Point/ Passion statement/ Struggle/ achievement/ Goal/ Issues of Society etc. (depending on your topic)

·         Supportive argument/ Outcome/ process of achievement/ Benefits/ suggestions etc. 

·         Supportive argument/ your future goal based on main point/ plea for change etc. 

3. Conclusion

·         Reaffirmation/ wrap up your speech around the main point. 

·         Thanks and best wishes

Let’s write an actual graduation speech using this guide

As I mentioned at the start of this page when writing a graduation speech our number 1 problem will be what to talk about. What will be our central idea or theme of speech? 

To find a suitable theme for the speech let’s brainstorm for some inspiration. We will have to introspect : 

Let’s see, some of the Ideas I believe in are as follows. 

These are just some ideas. You can add as many boxes at the bottom and list all the brainstormed ideas. Now we have a list of ideas that we can go through with our friends, family, and peers. A Great way for some thoughts on your ideas is to discuss them with your parents. Remember this is not just your big day, it is a very proud day for your parents as well. 

The key is to choose the topic in which you are comfortable speaking, and you have enough to speak about it. 

As I’m a big fan of the Harry Potter books, let’s see if we can find some inspiration from the story of Harry Potter. The tale of Harry Potter is an instant classic. There can be so many points to talk about. This is a story of friendship, sacrifice, courage, redemption, hope, and good vs evil. I always believe in the one quote from the books. That is “love is the greatest magic”. 

This is a good topic. It is not controversial, it’s not political and love truly is one of the key attributes to living a happy life. 

Ok, Now we have a quote from our favorite book. Let’s turn that into a moving speech for our audience. My introduction will be something like this: 

“Good evening/morning, Distinguished guests, faculty members, staff, families, friends, and fellow graduates. Today we stand here in our fancy gowns and caps to celebrate one of the precious chapters of our lives. It is barely over, and it is already becoming nostalgic but that’s the talk of later times.

Today I am here to tell you a very peculiar thing I have come to learn in recent years. I know you won’t believe it when I tell you, that in the past few years, I have met some magicians and have seen some real magic. I am saying this in every non-fictional sense.  As for the past few years, We all have walked through the halls of this institute growing together, making memories but always under the protection of magic, rarely knowing about it. 

Ladies and gentlemen, I am talking about “love”. As another headmaster Albus Dumbledore, somewhere else in another universe puts it, that love is the greatest magic of all. As we are one foot into the next chapter of our lives, I want to talk about the most powerful magic and how it shaped us.

Alright, this is our introduction paragraph. As you can see it has three distinct parts colored differently. There is a clear acknowledgment/ introduction, followed by a very important Hook statement, and then followed by a transition line into the body of the speech. 

Let’s work on the body of the graduation speech. 

Ladies and gentlemen, As I look back, I cannot help but agree that often taken for granted and almost always overlooked, this simple yet most magical emotion was always there. It was there when our families supported us, our friends encouraged us, or even when our mentors disciplined us. All of these great magicians capable of loving us in our lows, have provided us with a strong foundation to build on. 

And that is just not it, Love was also there in us for our passion, love shaped our activities and the subjects we chose which in turn sparked our curiosity and allows us to grow our talents. 

To be truthful I have been thinking a lot in recent weeks, and I concluded that love is not just a feeling, I mean it has to be a forceful action. The willingness I have seen in my parents to sacrifice their comforts for me was not just a feeling, they did act on it. The steadfast support of my friends in every hour of need was more than just a boastful announcement, they actually stood with me. The promise of my mentors to go above and beyond to help me was not just a promise, they actually put extra effort to share their wisdom with me. How can it be just a feeling when all these wonderful people went beyond and actually acted and actually helped me to be here where I am? 

As we look ahead to the future, we can be confident that love will continue to guide us and will always help us to go through new opportunities and challenges. And I am 100% sure that we not only need the support of love to succeed in real life, but we also need love to get to the best version of ourselves. 

In all of our life up until now, we have been at the receiving end of this magical spell. Having said that it is also paramount that we learn to cast this spell now. Let’s be there for our family and friends as they were. Let’s just not sit back and hope that things will work out. Let’s take action to make sure that things do work out. Let’s promise to go out of our way to support and care for them, even when it’s difficult or inconvenient. Let’s listen to them when they need to be heard and offer a shoulder when they need it. 

Let’s cultivate a sense of love for ourselves as we strive to navigate through life and let’s extend the love to the precious people around us as we attempt to build a world that is more just, compassionate and beautiful. This is my resolution in life.  

In conclusion, today is a day to celebrate the power of love, and a day to express our gratitude to the beautiful magicians around us. We have accomplished a great deal, but we could not have done it alone. It is the love of those around us that have supported and sustained us through this journey. We are truly indebted to our teachers, this prestigious institute, our parents and family, and our friends. Thank you for your unconditional Love. As we move forward, let us hold onto the truth that love is the greatest magic of all. Let us be guided by the power of love, as we seek to make a positive impact on the world and to live lives that are full of purpose and meaning. 

Congratulations to every one of you on this incredible accomplishment, and may the magic of love continue to light our way into the future. Thank you

It is finally finished. 

P. S: I cannot show the whole work which I did to write this speech. Just so you know, a lot of editing and back-and-forth re-writing went into it just in case you are struggling to write it and want to give up. Don’t worry this is part of the process. 

Conclusion:  

Writing a graduation speech may seem daunting at first, but following these simple steps will help ensure that yours is one that will be remembered long after the tassels have been turned! And remember: this is YOUR story—so don’t be afraid to let YOUR unique voice shine through!

Read Also: How to fast track your bachelor’s degree.

• Graduation speech
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• How to Write Valedictorian Speech

A Guide - How to Write Valedictorian Speech.

This guide to writing a valedictorian speech include recommendations for the three types of stories or anecdotes to include in a valedictorian speech and what to include in a valedictorian speech outline.

Guidance Contents:

Three Common Valedictorian Stories

• The First Day Story
• The Overcoming Challenges Story
• The Unforgettable Moment Story
• Common Features of a Valedictorian Speech
•  Introduction
• Inspiration

First Step - How to Write Valedictorian Speech

Include a Story

A valedictorian speech often includes anecdotes or stories that are inspirational, heartfelt, and reflective of the shared experiences of the graduating class. You could include one of three relatable stories: The First Day, Overcoming Challenges, or The Unforgettable Moment.

1. The First Day Story

The first day story is a common anecdote in which the valedictorian describes their first day at the school or university, often emphasizing their feelings of nervousness, excitement, or confusion. This story can be used to highlight how much they and their classmates have grown and changed since that first day. It also helps to create a sense of shared experience and connection among the audience.

Example : "I still remember my first day here, lost and overwhelmed, trying to find my way to the right classroom, while also trying to look like I knew exactly what I was doing. Now, we're all here, about to walk across this stage with confidence, ready to take on the world."

2. The Overcoming Challenges Story

The overcoming challenges story focuses on a particular challenge or set of challenges that the valedictorian or their classmates faced during their time at the school, and how they overcame it. This could be related to a tough class, a difficult project, or personal struggles. This story is meant to inspire resilience and perseverance.

Example : "Remember that time when we were all struggling with that complex physics project? We spent sleepless nights working on it, supported each other, and eventually, we overcame. That's what we do. We face challenges head-on, and we conquer them."

3. The Unforgettable Moment Story

The unforgettable moment story is a type of anecdote that describes a memorable event or experience that happened during the course of their education. This could be a memorable school trip, a winning moment in a sports competition, or an inspiring talk by a guest speaker. This story aims to evoke nostalgia and to remind everyone of the good times they've shared.

Example : "Who could forget the time we won the state championship? That moment was not just about victory, but about teamwork, commitment, and our collective spirit. As we move forward in our lives, let's carry this spirit with us."

Remember, when learning how to write a valedictorian speech, the best stories or anecdotes for a valedictorian speech can resonate with the audience, evoke emotions, inspire, and create a sense of unity and shared experience.

The Most Common Features of a Valedictorian Speech

A valedictorian speech often follows a similar structure to other public speeches. Here's a simple outline of the most common features of a valedictorian speech to help you know how to write a valedictorian speech:

Introduction of the Valedictorian Speech

• Greeting : Welcome the audience, and express gratitude for being selected as the valedictorian.
• Context : Mention the significance of the occasion (graduation).
• Preview : Briefly overview the speech’s main points.

Body of the Valedictorian Speech

• Personal Reflection : Share personal experiences, growth, and lessons learned throughout your academic journey.
• Shared Memories : Recall specific memorable experiences or events that the entire class can relate to.
• Acknowledgment : Recognize the contributions of teachers, parents, staff, and classmates to your success and the success of the class.
• Overcoming Challenges : Highlight the obstacles faced and how they were overcome, emphasizing the strength, resilience, and camaraderie of the class.

Inspiration: a Specific Aspect of a Valedictorian Speech

• Inspirational Message : Share an inspiring message or story to motivate your classmates for the future.
• Future Aspirations : Discuss the potential of your graduating class and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.
• Quote : Incorporate a relevant quote that encapsulates your message and provides a guiding principle for the future.

Conclusion of a Valedictorian Speech

• Summary : Recap the main points of your speech.
• Final Message : Leave the audience with a final thought, wish, or call to action.
• Farewell : Express hope for everyone's future and bid your classmates, teachers, and everyone present a fond farewell.

Remember, the secret to a compelling valedictorian speech is to weave your unique experiences and insights into a broader tapestry of shared experiences, making it relatable to all present.

Wrap Up How to Write Valedictorian Speech

Crafting a valedictorian speech is a remarkable opportunity to encapsulate years of experiences, growth, and shared memories into a powerful narrative. It's a way to inspire and provide a sense of closure and new beginnings. Remember, the secret to a compelling valedictorian speech is to weave your unique experiences and insights into a broader tapestry of shared experiences, making it relatable to all present.

Incorporating stories such as the first day of school, overcoming shared challenges, or unforgettable moments can help you highlight the journey you and your classmates have taken together. These stories add a personal touch and evoke shared memories and feelings, making your speech more engaging and memorable.

As for the structure, remember the importance of a well-organized speech . Begin with an engaging introduction and progress with a substantial body that includes personal reflections, acknowledgments, shared memories, and inspirational messages. Finally, conclude by recapping the main points, delivering a final heartfelt message, and bidding your audience a fond farewell.

Your valedictorian speech is not just a summary of your academic journey. It's also an inspirational send-off for your classmates as they embark on the next phase of their lives.

So, make it heartfelt, make it engaging, and most importantly, make it memorable. With these insights and tips, you can create a valedictorian speech that will resonate with your audience and leave a lasting impact.

Happy writing!

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, writing salutatorian and valedictorian speeches.

I've been chosen as the salutatorian for my class and I need to give a speech during graduation. I've never written anything like this before. Does anyone have any advice on how to write a meaningful and engaging speech? Also, what's the difference between a salutatorian and a valedictorian speech, if there is any?

First off, congratulations on being chosen as the salutatorian for your class! It's an incredible achievement! Now, when it comes to writing a salutatorian speech, it's essential to make it personable and inspiring. Here are a few tips to help you craft a memorable speech:

1. Reflect on your experience: Take some time to think about the years you've spent in high school and what they meant to you and your peers. Consider discussing shared experiences, successes, or challenges that you all faced together.

2. Keep the tone positive: It's important to inspire and motivate your classmates as they move on to the next chapter in their lives. Focus on positive aspects of your time together and how the lessons you've learned can help guide you all in the future.

3. Include a personal touch: Share a story or anecdote that relates to your time in high school and helps illustrate a broader theme or life lesson. Make sure that your story is relatable and not too personal.

4. Show gratitude: Acknowledge and thank the teachers, school staff, family, and other community members who have supported you and your classmates throughout your high school journey.

5. Be concise: Graduations can be lengthy, so keep your speech's time in mind. Aim for a speech length of around 5-7 minutes.

You might want to go on YouTube and look at examples of high school graduation speeches to get a sense of what people talk about and how they are structured.

Now, regarding the difference between a salutatorian and valedictorian speech, there isn't a major distinction in content. The primary difference lies in academic ranking, with the valedictorian representing the highest-ranking student in your class and the salutatorian coming in second. Both speeches typically focus on experiences, reflection, gratitude, and inspiration. However, as the salutatorian, you might want to briefly acknowledge the valedictorian's achievements and congratulate them during your speech.

Remember to stay true to yourself and speak from the heart. This will help make your speech genuine, engaging, and relatable to your audience. Good luck!

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This ‘The Chosen’ actor is giving a commencement speech at the Catholic University of America

University president peter kilpatrick said this actor has changed millions of lives.

By Hanna Seariac

“The Chosen” actor Jonathan Roumie will deliver the commencement speech for The Catholic University of America’s graduation ceremony.

The university announced the news in a release.

“Millions of people have had their lives changed for the better by Jonathan Roumie through his portrayal of Jesus Christ, his voice on the Hallow app, and in his many appearances where he advocates for the Catholic faith and the teachings of the Church,” university president Peter Kilpatrick said in the release. “Jonathan’s work is a testament to how lay Catholics can use their God-given talents to deliver messages of hope, belief and bring people closer to God.”

Roumie is a Catholic who is something of a Christian influencer. His Instagram account is full of posts where he encourages prayer. According to the release, Roumie also has served as a ministry leader and an extraordinary minister of Holy Communion.

“Speaking at The Catholic University of America’s Commencement is such an honor because I will be among those who not only value a quality education, but a college experience formed by the Catholic faith,” Roumie said. “I so look forward to celebrating with these graduates and sharing some insights into how one can live an inspired, fulfilling and faithful life using the skills, talents and intellect given to them by God.”

The Catholic University of America will also award Roumie with an honorary degree.

Global Sports Icon Roger Federer to Speak at Commencement

The humanitarian will receive an honorary degree at the June 9 ceremony.

'Spider-Verse' Duo Speaks at Dartmouth 2023 Commencement

Swiss tennis legend and philanthropist Roger Federer —one of the greatest male athletes the sport has ever known—will address the Class of 2024 and receive an honorary doctor of humane letters degree at Commencement , which takes place on Sunday, June 9. 

“Roger Federer is undeniably one the greatest athletes of all time, but it’s the evident joy that he always found on the court that stays with me, and that I think will resonate most with the Class of 2024,” says President Sian Leah Beilock , who describes herself as a Federer fan.

“I would argue that this gift for finding joy in the striving—even or especially in moments when winning didn’t come easily, or at all—is one of the keys to his long-term success and to his ability, now, to give back so selflessly to the causes that are most meaningful to him. I am thrilled to welcome him to campus.”

Between 1998 and his retirement in 2022, Federer dominated the world of tennis, ranking No. 1 in the world for men’s singles for a consecutive 237 weeks—a record—and 310 weeks total. 

During his career, he won 103 Association of Tennis Professionals Tour singles titles and 20 out of the 30 Grand Slam singles championships in which he competed, including a men’s record eight Wimbledon titles. He is one of only eight men to win all four major tournaments (the Australian Open, the French Open, Wimbledon, and the U.S. Open), and the only player in history to have won two Grand Slam tournaments—Wimbledon and the U.S. Open—five consecutive times.

I am so excited and honored to be your Commencement speaker this year, and, of course, I hope I see you on the Big Green in June.

Among other achievements, he won a gold medal in doubles at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, earned the title of Swiss Athlete of the Year six times, and won a record 40 ATP Tour Awards including the ATP Fan Favorite Award an unprecedented 19 consecutive times. The list goes on.

In 2003, Federer—who holds dual citizenship in Switzerland and South Africa—founded the Roger Federer Foundation, which to date has invested more than $96 million in early educational initiatives serving more than 2.7 million children living in poverty in Switzerland and six countries in southern Africa—Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. 

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Federer made substantial contributions to support vulnerable families in Switzerland. In addition, the foundation joined a consortium of donors to guarantee access to foundational learning for out-of-school children affected by the war in Ukraine. In January 2020, Federer joined his friend and fellow tennis star Rafael Nadal to raise money for people impacted by the Australian bushfires.

Federer’s well-known preference for playing on grass (he famously won a record 65 consecutive grass-court matches between 2003 and 2008) is the subject of a tongue-in-cheek Commencement announcement video Federer recorded with President Beilock earlier this month, which features a cameo by CNN anchor and Dartmouth trustee Jake Tapper ’91 , who delivered his own commencement address in 2017 .

In the video, while Beilock and a Dartmouth groundskeeper worry that the snow- and mud-covered Dartmouth Green of early spring won’t be green enough in time for Commencement, Federer tells the camera, “I am so excited and honored to be your Commencement speaker this year, and, of course, I hope I see you on the Big Green in June.” 

Beilock herself will be delivering valedictory remarks at her first Commencement ceremony as Dartmouth president. 

In addition to conferring degrees on undergraduate and professional and graduate students of the Class of 2024, Beilock will also confer honorary degrees on several leaders—whose names will be announced soon—in the sciences, medicine, government, technology, and more. 

Commencement Dates to Know

Saturday, May 11

9 a.m.— Geisel School of Medicine Class Day at Lebanon Opera House, Lebanon, N.H.

Saturday, June 8

9:15 a.m.— Thayer School of Engineering Investiture at the West End Circle. 

1 p.m.— Tuck Investiture at the steps of Tuck Hall. 

4 p.m.— Guarini School of Graduate and Advanced Studies Investiture on the Green. Reception to follow on the Class of 1978 Life Sciences Center Lawn. 

Sunday, June 9

9 a.m.—Academic procession to the Green. The Commencement ceremony begins at 9:30 a.m.

The Commencement website includes information for students, families, and guests.

The Office of Communications can be reached at  [email protected] .

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University announces Mitt Romney as commencement speaker

By AIMEE CHO | March 29, 2024

GAGE SKIDMORE / CC BY-SA 3.0

Graduating students expressed mixed responses about the commencement speaker announcement. 

On Wednesday, March 27, the University announced that Mitt Romney, a U.S. Senator from Utah, will give the commencement speech for the Class of 2024 on May 23.

Romney was sworn in as a senator for Utah in 2019. Previously, he served as the governor of Massachusetts from 2003 to 2007. Romney has run for the Republican presidential nomination twice and was selected as the presidential nominee in 2012. 

According to the Hub , Romney will receive an honorary doctor of humane letters degree in the commencement ceremony. In the article, University President Ronald J. Daniels explained that Hopkins chose Romney as the speaker because of his commitment to improving the lives of Americans and maintaining moderate political ideologies.

"At a time when our politics are at serious risk of being undermined by extreme polarization, Senator Romney reminds us that the spirit of compromise and civic friendship—even among political rivals—remains a vital and relevant foundation of our democracy,” he said.

Students showed mixed responses to the announcement. In an interview with The News-Letter , senior Janhvi Parsai expressed disappointment about the choice.

“While I understand that, relative to his other Republican colleagues, Romney has been a more centrist politician, I think his views on certain issues still make him a poor choice for speaker,” she said.

Parsai particularly pointed out Romney’s beliefs against the constitutional protection for the right to abortion and legalization of same-sex marriage. Following the Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson in 2022 which held that the U.S. Constitution does not confer a right to abortion, Romney posted on X (formerly Twitter) that he supported the decision of the Court. 

During his presidential campaign in 2012, Romney made a public statement that he does not believe same-sex marriage should be allowed. However, he flipped his views in 2022 and voted to advance the Respect for Marriage Act . 

“It is one thing to have differing views on the free market, but when your views predicate on denying certain groups basic rights, they should not be tolerated,” she said.

Parsai stated that she does not feel that student input was factored into the decision. She voiced that the commencement committee should have chosen a speaker who reflects not only the values of the University but also the student body.

Senior Daniel Quezada shared similar sentiments in an interview with The News-Letter .

“Students at this university have consistently shown up to defend abortion rights, the civil rights protections of our LGBTQ+ friends and countless other causes that Senator Romney has opposed throughout his career,” he said. “Had we been consulted, I doubt Senator Romney would be on the stage.”

Quezada added that he believes that Romney does not fit the theme of commencement for reasons beyond his past actions as well.

“In my view, a commencement address is best given by someone at the leading edge of the politics of the future, not by someone whose politics are thoroughly consigned to the past,” he said.

Assistant Vice President for Media Relations and News J.B. Bird addressed some of these concerns raised by students in an email to The News-Letter .

“This is a great opportunity for students to hear from a national leader committed to the free and vigorous exchange of ideas around issues that many people feel passionately about,” he wrote.

He also explained that the process of choosing a commencement speaker is closely tied to the honorary degree selection and involves all community members. Each fall, students, faculty, alumni, staff and friends of the University are invited through the commencement website to confidentially submit nominations online. Then, a committee composed of President Daniels, trustees and University leadership reviews the nominations and makes recommendations to the Board of Trustees, which approves the final selection.

In an email to The News-Letter , Hopkins alum and former President of Hopkins Democrats Raymond Perez commented that he does not see Romney as having balanced political views and believes that he is firmly on the right wing.

“People forget that he was the progenitor of the anti-immigration stuff. In the 2012 [presidential] primary, he was attacked for being moderate compared to the religious right embodied by Rick Santorum. So he went hard on immigration. And then he flipped his position from pro-Roe to anti-Roe,” he wrote.

Nevertheless, Perez does not oppose the choice. He referenced how Romney was one of seven GOP senators who voted to convict former President Donald Trump for the January 2021 attack on the Capitol. 

“Even as a partisan Democrat, I'm not actually substantially against Senate Romney being chosen as a commencement speaker,” he wrote. “At the very most, I'll thank him for voting to impeach an obvious criminal who ordered his own supporters to storm the heart of the U.S. Thank you, Mitt.”

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College of business, 2025 commencement.

March 27, 2024

Dear CSU Community,

Today we are happy to share that Colorado State University will move to an exciting new commencement format starting in May 2025 at Canvas Stadium. With this new tradition beginning in Spring 2025, CSU’s graduating class will be able to celebrate their achievements all together during one university-wide ceremony each year. In addition to this university-wide commencement ceremony, Departments will host recognition events where each student’s name will be read and families can gather with the faculty and staff who have taught the students and helped them every step of the way.

For Spring 2024 and Fall 2024 commencement, we will retain the individual College-based ceremonies that CSU has historically hosted. These will be the final College-based ceremonies CSU will host before transitioning to the new university-wide format. In order to allow students and families adequate planning time and maximum flexibility, students graduating in Fall of 2024 may choose to participate either in their College’s Fall 2024 commencement ceremony or in the new all-university ceremony in Spring of 2025.

With the new format starting in Spring of 2025, CSU will no longer host both fall and spring commencement events. Instead, the University will invite all graduating students and families to come together each spring. Graduates will participate in one large celebration featuring a prominent commencement speaker, as well as in the smaller events where Departments will acknowledge each student individually. This will unify ourwhole Ram community and will also allow us to celebrate each student in a more intimate setting.

This shift aligns with other leading universities and brings opportunities for memorable traditions and broad campus engagement. The new format responds to feedback from students, faculty, and staff, and comes after a thorough review of the best ceremonies from around the country.

Whether you are a student or family member, or a member of our faculty or staff, there will be a lot of planning ahead and more information to come. Here are the most important details to share now:

• Spring 2024 and Fall 2024 commencements will be unchanged.
• Our first university-wide commencement will take place Friday, May 16, 2025, at 9 a.m. at Canvas Stadium.
• Starting with the first university-wide commencement in Spring 2025, Departments will host individual recognition events where student names will be read and diploma covers issued.
• Summer 2024 graduates are invited to participate in Spring 2024, Fall 2024, or Spring 2025 commencement.
• Fall 2024 graduates are invited to participate in Fall 2024 or Spring 2025 commencement.
• Spring 2025 and Summer 2025 graduates should plan to participate in the Spring 2025 ceremony.
• Fall 2025 graduates are invited to participate in Spring 2025 or Spring 2026 commencement.

As planning moves ahead, details will be available on the Spring 2025 Commencement webpage . There will be many opportunities to ask questions and engage so that everyone knows what to expect and how they can participate in making this first university-wide commencement a great Ram experience.

Amy Parsons

Marion Underwood

Provost and Executive Vice President

Watch CBS News

Roger Federer to give commencement speech at Dartmouth College

By Neal Riley

March 28, 2024 / 1:23 PM EDT / CBS Boston

HANOVER, N.H.- Tennis legend Roger Federer will be the commencement speaker at Dartmouth College this year, the Ivy League school in Hanover, New Hampshire announced Thursday.

"I am so excited and honored to be your commencement speaker and I hope to see you on the 'Big Green' in June," the retired 20-time grand slam champion from Switzerland said in a statement.

Federer to receive honorary degree from Dartmouth

Dartmouth President Sian Leah Beilock teased the news in a video , in which she talks to a school groundskeeper about getting the campus up to Wimbledon standards, where Federer has won eight trophies.

"The grass needs to look and play perfectly for this year's commencement speaker," Beilock said.

Federer will receive an honorary doctor of humane letters at the June 9 ceremony. 

Commencement speakers announced at some Massachusetts colleges

Some colleges in Massachusetts have also made their commencement speakers known. 

Harvard University announced this month that journalist and Nobel Prize winner Maria Ressa will be the principal commencement speaker. Ressa had been threatened with rape, prison and death for former President Rodrigo Duterte's bloody drug war, 60 Minutes reported in 2019. 

At MIT, students will hear from Noubar Afeyan, an inventor and entrepreneur who co-founded COVID vaccine maker Moderna . 

And for Northeastern University's commencement ceremony at Fenway Park, pioneering astronaut and deputy NASA administrator Pam Melroy will address the new graduates. 

• New Hampshire News

Neal J. Riley is a digital producer for CBS Boston. He has been with WBZ-TV since 2014. His work has appeared in The Boston Globe and The San Francisco Chronicle. Neal is a graduate of Boston University.

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Roger federer to give commencement speech at dartmouth college 2024 graduation.

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Tennis legend Roger Federer is coming to New Hampshire in June to speak at Dartmouth College.

The Swiss tennis star and philanthropist will address the Class of 2024 on June 9 and will also receive an honorary doctorate of humane letters degree, according to college officials.

Federer retired from tennis in 2022 after breaking records as the number 1 men's single player in the words for a consecutive 237 weeks.

He also founded the Roger Federer Foundation in 2003 and has invested nearly $100 million into early educational initiatives for impoverished children in Switzerland and Africa.

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A night our guys won’t soon forget. Thank you @rogerfederer 🌲 pic.twitter.com/GGkXYxHzYh — Stanford Men's Tennis (@StanfordTennis) March 9, 2024

Roger Federer hitting some forehands at the Stanford University, where Nico Godsick (son of agent Tony Godsick and Mary Joe Fernandez) is currently playing. 📹 @StanfordTennis pic.twitter.com/jqMaximOSc — José Morgado (@josemorgado) March 28, 2024

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Actress Jennifer Coolidge to give Washington U. commencement speech

Daniel neman.

• Mar 28, 2024

Actor Jennifer Coolidge will give the 2024 commencement address at Washington University.

Emmy Award-winning comedic actress Jennifer Coolidge has been tapped to give the commencement address at Washington University on May 13.

Coolidge, who won Primetime Emmys for best supporting actress in a drama series and in a limited series in 2022 and 2023 for the show “The White Lotus,” first came to wide public notice in the raunchy 1999 teen sex comedy “American Pie.”

She played the flirtatious, middle-aged mother of one of the main characters. When a teenaged boy at a party asks if she has any Scotch, she famously says she does, “aged 18 years, the way I like it.”

The character actress has appeared in more than 125 mostly small roles in movies and on television, including numerous parodies and such hits as “Legally Blonde” and “Zoolander.” She was also in two Christopher Guest mockumentaries, “A Mighty Wind” and “Best in Show.”

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Washington University made the announcement on X, formerly Twitter, with a video that resembles an invitation.

“Chancellor (Andrew) Martin is pleased to introduce a celebrated actress whose wit, charm and humor not only steal scenes but inspire. And this May, on Francis Olympic Field, she’s the WashU24 Commencement speaker.”

The video then shows Coolidge lounging behind two pillows on what appears to be a bed. She says, “Hi, everybody at Washington University in St. Louis. It’s Jennifer Coolidge, and if you don’t know who I am, that’s too bad, because I’m coming to your campus on May 13 to give the commencement speech for the Class of 2024.

“I can’t wait to see all of your beautiful faces, and it’s really just, like, a month or two away, so I’ll see you then. Good night.”

She's an award-winning scene stealer, and now we're proud to announce she is the 163rd Commencement speaker. On Monday, May 13 @JENCOOLIDGE , steps into a new role as she delivers the address to the graduating class of #WashU24 ! pic.twitter.com/Nrnx1WWhob — Washington University in St. Louis (@WUSTL) March 27, 2024

View life in St. Louis through the Post-Dispatch photographers' lenses. Edited by Jenna Jones.

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