In the words of the wise Dr. Seuss, “Congratulations! Today is your day. You’re off to great places.”

I am of course addressing all of the students about to embark on their next journey.

While there is an endless amount of advice for graduates, I would like to throw in my own two cents.

Read Dr. Seuss’ “Oh the Places You’ll Go.”

There is a reason it is the go-to graduation gift and that’s because whether you’re graduating from high school, college, a master’s program or doctorate program, it has advice fit for everyone.

“You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the guy who’ll decide where to go,” said Seuss in the book.

The road to achievement is a lonely path, but has gratifying results.

It’s not to say you won’t have the support of people who care about you, but your goals can only be achieved if you want them.

You are the one making the decision to persevere.

“Wherever you go, you will top all the rest. Except when you don’t. Because, sometimes, you won’t,” Seuss goes on to say.

The dream you have in high school may change or not work out the way you want, but that’s okay.

That is life.

Take the speed bump you’ve been given and don’t let it stop you in your tracks.

Instead try to find another path.

Scared you won’t succeed? Well there’s no need for that because Dr. Seuss says, “And will you succeed? Yes! You will, indeed! (98 and 3/4 percent guaranteed.)”

So all you graduates out there, don’t be scared.

Wear a brave face.

Stand up straight.

Stand up tall because “Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting. So…get on your way!”