A college graduation ceremony is often a pivotal moment in a person’s life. There’s nothing more rewarding than accomplishing one’s goal. While graduation is supposed to be an exciting time, it can also be quite daunting. Graduation is a time when one journey ends only for another to begin– real life. While nothing can truly prepare a person for the transition, a few wise words from the graduation’s commencement speaker can set the tone for the next chapter in a person’s life.
A commencement speaker is usually a successful and respected figure chosen by the school to deliver an empowering message to graduates during a graduation ceremony.
Thursday, Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant delivered an inspiring speech to graduates from Pearl River Community College. According to the Sun Herald, Bryant used a superhero analogy throughout his speech to encourage students to believe in themselves. He recounted the infamous story of Superman and went on to say that kryptonite exists in everyone’s lives. He also said it’s up to the individual to choose to stay away from negative influences and instead rise above them.
After his speech, Bryant reportedly tore open his commencement gown to reveal the Superman emblem emblazoned on his shirt. The act was meant to demonstrate the idea that everyone is worthy of being a hero in their own lives.
While commencement speeches seem trivial in the grand scheme of things, Bryant’s speech surely made an impact on many graduates that Thursday morning.
A great commencement speech sticks with an individual forever. It inspires them to get that first job and guides them when they’re feeling lost. Powerful words can leave a lasting impact and inspire people to believe in themselves.
The inspiring words found in a commencement speech can lay the foundation for the rest of a person’s life.