sample graduation speech for elementary

Sample Valedictory Address for Elementary

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SAMPLE VALEDICTORY ADDRESS (ELEMENTARY)

(Roselyn U. Doletin) Valedictorian, Class of 2014 51st Commencement Exercises Gastav Elementary School March 27, 2014

It was not so long ago when I dared to dream, and not so long ago, when I dared to take the first essential steps towards the fulfillment of my elementary education.

Today, together with my batch mates, celebrate our success after all these years of hardship, struggle and perseverance. We reminisce the challenges that stood before us, and we savor the victories that came upon our hands.

To our distinguished guest speaker, Hon. Councilor John Raymond P. Allado. Sir Omar A. Obas, the Schools Division Superintendent of the Division of Cotabato, Sir Antonio C. Dumagpi, the Division Supervisor assigned in Banisilan. Sir Ricarido M. Quitor, the Principal In charge of our district. The Honorable Mayor Betty A. Allado, The Honorable Barangay Captain, Virgilio L. Calva, the municipal, barangay, and PTA officials who are with us today, the teaching force of Gastav Elementary School headed by Sir John A. Pagayon, guests and visitors, fellow graduates and to our dear parents…. A BEAUTIFUL AND PLEASANT MORNING TO ALL OF YOU.

From the start that I went to school, I always dreamed of being the best. So, I strived hard to be on top of the class, but failed to what I dreamt. Despite of that, I continue to strive hard for me to reach my goal and that is being to be the TOP 1 of the class. I never lose hope, rather I was inspired to do better, and with that I managed to be on top of the class during Grade 5.

Standing here in front of everybody, have this feeling of pride and happiness. Because I have proven to myself that I can be the best of what I am only if will strive hard and have a sense of determination and perseverance. I am also happy because all my efforts and sacrifices were well paid off.

The theme, “Hindi Natitinag ang Pusong Pilipino” talks mainly on our ability to cope with whatever trials comes on our way. Napatunayang natin sa buong mundo na kahit ano pa mang kalamidad and dumating sa atin ay nagagawa pa rin nating ngumiti at tumawa. Naipakita natin sa buong mundo na sa gitna ng lahat ay hindi tayo nawawalan ng pag-asa. Naipakita rin natin ang ating pagmamahal at pagmamalasakit sa bawat isa sa pamamagitan ng pagtutulungan.

Young as I am today, I can say that failures and trials should not be the reason for us to say no and never try to do something, rather let us make them an inspiration to do better. Let them strengthens our character.

These medals I have today are the fruits of my labors. And I know I could not be this best if not because of Mama and Papa who were always there to guide me. Ma & Pa, Damo gid nga salamat. To my teachers for the insurmountable dedication and patient in teaching us. Maams & Sirs, I learned a lot of things from you which I will value as I continue getting through my dreams.

To my fellow graduates, we end up one glorious chapter of our lives and a new one will begin. New adventures, new friendships, new series of struggles but with the things we learned from Gastav Elementary School, let’s keep bodly stepping towards the fulfillment of our dreams and aspirations.

Along the way, we may meet a lot of trials, but our burning desire to reach our goals will keep us from straying or giving up. Along the way were many uncertainties, but certain beacons of light will show us the right path to take.

Fellow graduates, please stand…

Let us thank God therefore for His unceasing grace and guidance; our teachers, for their immeasurable dedication; our parents for their unconditional support all throughout these years; and our friends who walk along with us, side by side.

Because of them, we were able to reach this endeavor. Because of them, we can truly say, “We made it!”

Let’s clapped our hands for all of them.

Congratulations fellow graduates.

Thank you and Mabuhay.

Source: Khee Khoy / TDA Group

(Speech delivered by: Jeannie Rose I Santos, 1st Honors, SY 2012-2013, Magdalena ES, Claveria East District, Division of Cagayan and Earl John P. Santos, 1st Honors, SY 2012-2013, Namuac-San Andres ES, Sanchez Mira District, Division of Cagayan)

Today features another milestone in the lives of graduating pupils like us. It is a day to celebrate and it is a day to mourn. A celebration because after 6 long years of acquiring our basic education, we are now ready to move forward one step higher in the ladder of our quest to greater level of educational heights. Today is a mournful day because we are leaving/ the portals of our dear Alma Mater which cradled us when we were still little young boys and girls wanting to be involved in the daily school activities.

As I stand before you today, I am faced with the challenges of the fast changing time. Our theme “Building the Nation’s Future Leaders through K to 12 Basic Education Program” imposes a great task to fulfill ahead. Yes, it is true that the present generation will soon take the lead in the future. We will soon be a part of a society where competition will be more rigid than now. There will be more struggles in the job opportunities, the acquisition of the basic necessities of life, and most of all, the response to the changing needs of the global market. Thanks to the government! Through the K to 12 curriculum, we will be kept abreast of the needed skills and knowledge/to open wider opportunities for employment here and abroad. We will be prepared to combat the battles that may come our way. We will be transformed into more responsible, more competent and more skilled individuals ready to conquer the world in its narrowest sense.

My fellow graduates, we can not deny that not everyone of us will continue the course of our studies and earn a college degree. But we can still be leaders in our simplest ways. Applying the self-discipline and basic competencies offered by the K to 12 program will lead us to a brighter future/ and be a part of developing a society where everybody enjoys the gift of living.

But before we finally leave the center stage of Magdalena Elementary School/Namuac San Andres Elementary School, we would like to thank the personas who have turned us to what we are now.

To our beloved parents, saan nga mabusbos nga panagyaman ti ipaaymi kadakayo nanang ken tatang. Gapu iti adu nga sakripisyo ken ayatyo siraragsak dagiti puspusomi nga mangawat ti diploma nga mangipaneknek nga addan kamin kadagiti umuna nga bala a pangsaranget kadagiti ad-adu pay a karit iti panagadalmi. Dawatenmi ngarud nga itultuloy dakami nga suportaran tapno maragpatmi dagiti ar-arapaapmi para kadakayo iti daytoy a biag..

To our teachers, we are forever grateful for the sacrifices and selfless services you have given us. itan nga maamirismi nga dagiti panangung-unget yo kadakami ket para met laeng iti pagsayaatanmi. The knowledge and skills you have taught us will be our armor and shield in facing the world with head up high. Thank you very much for the opportunities you have given us to develop our full potentials and abilities.

To our friends and schoolmates, we are about to part ways to find the right track that lies ahead. We will forever cherish the memories both laughter and pain we shared together. But I know deep within my heart we may be miles away, we will always be there in one accord chasing the impossible dreams that are planned for us.

To our dear Magdalena Elementary School/Namuac-San Andres Elementary School, thank you very much for caring us for six long years. Now that we are leaving you, we can not help/ but to carry with us the victories we have with you. the Class of 2013 will leave you a legacy which will forever be etched in your history as an institution of basic education. The 15 graduates are proud to say that we have created a history and set a record having produced the school’s first qualifiers to the Division and Regional Schools Press Conference. Thanks to our coaches Sir Bernaldo, Mam Resty, Mam Renalyn and Mam Jeannie

To all of you who in one way or the other helped us become what we are now, our heartfelt gratitude.

Above all, the Almighty Father for the gift of life, the wisdom and the expertise you have bestowed upon us. We pray earnestly that you continue to guide us as we follow the direction towards the attainment of our dreams.

To this end, I urged my fellow graduates to be one with me in giving back the honor and glory due to everyone who had molded us to what we have become. We can be leaders in our own little way. Kaya ba natin ito? (yes we can!) kayang-kaya basta sama-sama.

Thank you very much.

Source: Bernaldo Botsoy Riparip Macugay / TDA Group

Ang Kalyeserye ng Ating Buhay: A valedictory address
Sample Farewell Address for Elementary

Mark Anthony Llego

Mark Anthony Llego, a visionary from the Philippines, founded TeacherPH in October 2014 with a mission to transform the educational landscape. His platform has empowered thousands of Filipino teachers, providing them with crucial resources and a space for meaningful idea exchange, ultimately enhancing their instructional and supervisory capabilities. TeacherPH's influence extends far beyond its origins. Mark's insightful articles on education have garnered international attention, featuring on respected U.S. educational websites. Moreover, his work has become a valuable reference for researchers, contributing to the academic discourse on education.

1 thought on “Sample Valedictory Address for Elementary”

thank you so much sir for such remarkable sharing as always in the past you’ve done until now. . kudos po. .

My Graduation 2020 Speech to my 5th-graders.

We just had a virtual graduation for our 5th-graders which was emotional, bittersweet, and left me teary-eyed throughout. While this is not the graduation we wanted, we still wanted our students to get the most out of it, and so I spent 3 days writing and pre-recorded the following speech for graduation. Hope you enjoy.

Ms. Tan’s Graduation Speech, June 23rd, 2020

Good morning everyone. I’m Ms. Tan, and I have been a fifth-grade teacher at our school for the past 4 years. I am so honored to be your Master of Ceremonies for the graduating class of 2020!

We teachers and staff here have seen you, the Class of 2020, grow into thoughtful, responsible, considerate and caring leaders. We are so proud of your accomplishments over the past 6 years, where you grew stronger not just in your ability to read, write, and do math, but in analyzing the world around you, in asking questions, and in wondering why the world is the way it is. You have learned and applied everything you learned about the 8 Habits* and become leaders not only in your classrooms but in your homes, community, and beyond.

This is not just a day to celebrate our graduating class but also to celebrate the parents, family and friends who have worked so hard and made so many sacrifices to make sure their children succeeded. Parents, today is a culmination of your children’s successes, failures, losses and triumphs. Today is a day we celebrate the end of your child’s journey in elementary school.

Today, your graduation day, students, has been something you have been dreaming of for six years, and something I dreamed of as well. Like many of you students, I come from a family of immigrants, where my parents speak a language other than English. There was pressure on me to learn English quickly so I could translate mail, help my parents go to appointments, and to succeed here in America.

Like all of you, I had teachers and family that believed in me, pushed me to work hard, and helped me find my voice. Because of everyone who supported me, and because of my own hard work, I was one of the first in my family to graduate from high school, then college, then a masters degree in teaching. And that is why I became a teacher- so I could help students like you also feel confident and strong enough to find your voices and succeed.

I eagerly volunteered this year to be your Master of Ceremonies. But I honestly struggled writing this speech. There is no sugarcoating that this is not how we wanted to celebrate this graduation day. We all have been waiting for this day, to see you in your dress-up clothes and caps and gowns, and celebrate in-person. We were ready for hugs, tears, laughter, and so much fun at the end of the year.

And then, so suddenly, we went from our classrooms, walking the hallways back-to-back up in two lines, sharing the same pencils and hall passes, sitting knee-to-knee in the cafeteria and in the auditorium, to learning from our homes. We once took things, like going outside and breathing fresh air in without a face mask, or not washing our hands, gross, for granted. We took going into school for granted. We all did.

I want to make clear that we are in a historic moment right now. We are in a moment in history now that students like you will study in 50 years’ time. This historic pandemic has hit the entire world and has changed everything. It has changed the ways we have been able to be with each other. It has changed the way we work. It has shown us how society works, and what doesn’t work. It changed how we were able to go to school, and how we’re able to do this graduation this year.

It is okay to be scared, confused, angry, and overwhelmed by all of this. And, you are not alone. As much as the adults in your life have tried to remain strong, we are also feeling all of those feelings.

And yet you, students, made it through these past few months to finish the 5th grade. As we very quickly and suddenly changed as a society, you students used everything you learned at our school to make it to this graduation day.

We switched quickly from seeing each other in person to seeing each other only on video chats. We got used to frozen screens and the weird sounds of our voices when our WiFi signal went bad. We learned to mute and unmute ourselves quickly if something in the background was loud.

Parents, family members, thank you for getting our children to this graduation day. Since we moved to remote learning, you’ve taken on a much larger role of teaching our children, whether it’s working as essential workers and making money for your families, then coming home to help your child complete assignments, or accepting our texts, phone calls and emails.

You all have been so gracious as we navigated this remote learning together. Thank you for being patient as we learned how to use these different platforms, figured out what times of day and what worked best for you and your children, and made sure all our students could get through this.

And students, so many of you have been doing so much work not just as students, but as older brothers and sisters who figured out Google Classroom not only for yourselves but for your siblings, helping your parents and relatives with Google Classroom or some email we sent you, or trying again and again to play a video or complete online assignments and math forms. You students worked so hard and worked through so much to believe in yourselves, built up ways to be sad and mad and finding hope all at the same time when things were hard.

Thank you to all the teachers and staff who made sure all of our students got to this Graduation day. We teachers and schools staff got so much closer to our students and families: now we text and call back and forth like we never would have before. We have laughed together at the small moments and cried together at the hard moments.

We know nothing can replace being with each other in person. We all miss being in school- and that’s something, kids, I KNOW you never thought you would say! We all miss each other and hope to see each other in person when it’s safe to do so. But the relationship, the love, the care, the hope we give one another, all of that has remained strong, maybe even stronger, and will still be there once you leave our school. That is how we got through this tough time: together.

But some of us have had terrible losses. Our community has lost grandmothers, grandfathers, mothers, fathers, siblings, children, cousins, aunts, uncles, friends. I want to acknowledge all of the family members and friends, those who helped our students get where they are today but who are not here today to celebrate with us. Let’s take a moment to acknowledge those we have lost. Thank you.

It is hard to stay the course. But the end in mind is making sure everyone is safe. We remember that everything we are doing is for our community. Everything we do in the future is for our community. We continue to work as a team and fight to make sure other lives are not taken too soon. Now and later, we know it’s always our duty to do what’s right. It takes all of us to do the right thing, to put first things first, but also stand up when something is wrong.

This time is hard, but this is just the beginning for you all on your journey towards becoming independent, thoughtful, critical citizens of this earth. This is the beginning of you learning to sharpen the saw, utilizing all the strength, courage, and willpower you have, all the struggles you persevered through, to pass your next tests. I don’t just mean math tests, but tests of your endurance and your ability to keep going, especially when things get hard. Take care of yourselves- whatever you’re feeling is okay, and you have people to support you through those tough times. And continue to believe in yourselves.

This is not the end of the community you have with us. Those hugs, tears, laughter, we aren’t able to have them in person now but we can have them later. You get to have them now with your family members and community. As we learned through all this, things don’t just stop when a scary infectious disease comes. If this time has taught us anything, it is to rely on the community we have. Know that we are here. You are all loved and supported, always. You have our contact information now- use it!

Keep doing the right thing and speaking up when there is wrong in the world. As Mohandas Gandhi said, “Be the change you wish to see in this world.” I hope you all find your voice and go make this world a better place for everyone. Thank you.

*Note: we are a “Leader in Me” Lighthouse school, meaning we implement the 8 Habits framework to help students learn how to work independently and interdependently.

One thought on “ My Graduation 2020 Speech to my 5th-graders. ”

This is so touching! Thank you for sharing your speech here! 🙂

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Middle School or Elementary School graduation speech

This page contains a funny sample speech for Middle School or Elementary School graduations for principles, teachers or other key note speakers. The speech template can be customized for graduations from preschool, 8th Grade, Junior High School, clubs, high school or other graduation events as well. This speech is humorous but also talks about dedication and personal commitment. We hope this graduation speech for keynote or guest speakers is helpful.

School graduation speech

Let me begin by welcoming all of you to today’s event and thanking (NAME OF PERSON WHO INTRODUCED YOU) for that kind introduction.

I’m very pleased to have been invited to speak here today on what I know is a very special day. It’s special for the graduates, for their proud parents and grandparents, and for their very relieved teachers. Just wait until these students are graduating college. Then their parents will be the

relieved ones.

As I begin, I have to say, I think the best speeches are those that have a great beginning, a memorable end, and not much in between. I will try then to make a great speech. Today is one of those great occasions when we get to celebrate our young people – their achievements, their perseverance and their successes as they grow up. It’s one of the times you can take a break and reflect, feeling good as a parent or a mentor, knowing that the kids you care about are doing just fine and they’re on the right path.

Graduates, you should know that your moms and dads are very proud of you today. They have high hopes for you, and they believe in you, and you are making them proud by showing what you can do. Take a look at them now, and you can see them smiling and snapping photos so they can record this moment forever. Today is an important day for you and for them. Today they are very, very proud of you. (PAUSE) Today would be a good day to ask for money.

Today would also be a good day to hug them and thank them for supporting you, because as much as this is your achievement, this is also the achievement of the people who care about you. That means your mom, your dad, your step mom or step dad, your grandparents, your sisters and brothers, and all the other people who care about you. They want you to be your best and to live up to your potential.

Graduations can be seen as a coming of age, a sort of official way to recognize when a person steps into the next stage of life, and graduates, you are stepping into a new stage.

With every year, you have become a little more independent. I bet you can still remember your first day here - it might have been exciting and a little intimidating too. I bet when you look at the (INSERT LOWEST GRADE IN SCHOOL HERE, 1ST GRADERS, 6TH GRADERS, ETC) going to class you think, Wow! They look so little! I can't believe I was ever that young! Get used to it. You'll be thinking that for the rest of your life.

But when you she younger students, you can tell how much you've grown up, how much you've learned and how much you've matured. Think back on some of the exciting things that happened this year, all the things you learned. This year, you… (ADD SOME INFO ABOUT THE CLASS OR SCHOOL HERE. TALK TO TEACHERS OR WHOEVER INVITED YOU FOR SOME IDEAS. IT CAN BE FIELD TRIPS, TOPICS STUDENTS LEARNED, ETC. YOU CAN ALSO ADD SOME FAMILY-FRIENDLY HUMOR ABOUT WHAT KIDS LEARNED).

You had some great time this year, and maybe you had some tough times, but you did it and you succeeded. You're ready for that next step. I ask you as you prepare for this next step to do a few things.

First, stop texting your friend about how you wish the speaker would hurry up and finish talking so you could go to (INSERT NAME OF LOCAL PARTY PLACE, MALL OR RESTAURANT POPULAR WITH STUDENTS).

Secondly, I ask you to take this chance to dedicate yourself to making the next year even better. Remember that you don’t have to follow the crowd. Do the right thing, even if no one is looking. Study hard and remember that you're investing in yourself with every test you take and every book you read. And finally, don't be in too big of a hurry to grow up. These are some great times in your life. Don't rush past them.

There are great things coming, and just as your parents are proud, each one of you should feel proud of yourself.

So congratulations to all of the graduates, congratulations to the parents, and finally, congrats to the teachers and everyone else who helped our graduates reach here today.

I'll leave you with this final quote, from a great author with whom I imagine you are all familar, by the name of Dr. Seuss.

"You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose. You're on your own. And you know what you know. You are the guy who'll decide where to go."

Congratulations again, and thank you for your attention.

Did you like this sample speech for Middle School and Elementary School Graduation? We hope you can use it for your speech, whether you are a principle, a teacher or a guest speaker.

Since you were interested in this sample speech about graduations, chances are you will like the following topics as well: High School Graduation speech and Easy Letter of Recommendation template

More information : We hope this page was helpful and provided you with some information about Middle School or Elementary School graduation speech . Check out our main page for more articles here Can U Write .

All materials on this page are under the copyright of canuwrite.com These speech and letter sample materials may be re-used for free but may not be reprinted or redistributed without attribution to canuwrite.com

My Speech Class

Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

Graduation Speech [20 Examples + Template]

Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class.

Being selected as a commencement speaker is a great recognition, but the responsibility can be intimidating. How do you know what kind of message will hit home for the graduates at this point in their lives? How do you make your message stand out from other words of wisdom that the graduating class has heard before?

Fortunately, there are many incredible graduation speeches from which you can pull information. We’ve gathered 15 of the best graduation speech examples here to make your research and brainstorming process easier. A little studying can give you ideas for the perfect graduation speech topic and help you write your speech efficiently.

In this article:

Graduation Speech Examples

Graduation speech template.

Take note of the flow and structure of the examples, and let them guide you in creating your own graduation speech outline. Remember to practice your speech and memorize the bulk of it so you’re able to deliver with confidence. With a strong theme and plenty of practice, you’re sure to gain the audience’s attention and leave them inspired.

Here are 15 free graduation speech examples to gain inspiration from. If you like a style or message of a sample speech, use it as a model to create your own original version.

Can We Write Your Speech?

Get your audience blown away with help from a professional speechwriter. Free proofreading and copy-editing included.

1. Funny Valedictorian Speech

This valedictorian entertains the audience of his high school graduation speech with subtle, kind-hearted jokes that reflect the graduating class and the school faculty. The graduation speaker has a sentimental theme to his speech, but his light humor ensures that the presentation is both meaningful and memorable.

“You see, this is not goodbye. This is see you in two to 10 years when I’m significantly smarter, wealthier, funnier, and more handsome than I am right now.”

2. College Graduation Speech Example: Conan O’Brien at Dartmouth College

You don’t have to be a famous comedian to deliver a funny graduation speech, but let Conan O’Brien’s speech at Dartmouth College serve as a good model to create your own. Intertwining life advice and great jokes, O’Brien inspires graduates to get past failure and pave their own paths.

“Today I tell you that whether you fear it or not, disappointment will come. The beauty is that through disappointment, you can gain clarity, and with clarity comes conviction and true originality.”

3. Preschool Graduation Speech

This preschool graduation speech is a great example for teachers who need to give a commencement address. A speech for a preschool or kindergarten graduation is different, in that the speaker is mostly communicating to the parents of the graduates. This preschool teacher delivers a meaningful speech that explains the joy in her job, while touching on the humorous things the students have said over the months.

“Tomorrow I give you back your child, the same child you entrusted in my care last fall, except now I give them back to you pounds heavier, inches taller… I give them back to you a little smarter, a little more mature, and a little more responsible than they were 10 months ago.”

4. David Foster Wallace Kenyon College Commencement Speech

In what is recognized as one of the best graduation speeches of all time, David Foster Wallace affirms to a class of liberal arts students that their education taught them how to think and how to be self-aware.

“The only thing that’s capital-T True is that you get to decide how you’re gonna try to see it. This, I submit, is the freedom of a real education, of learning how to be well-adjusted. You get to consciously decide what has meaning and what doesn’t. You get to decide what to worship.”

5. Middle School Graduation Speech

A class president delivers a heartwarming message in a storytelling format at his middle school graduation ceremony.

“Once upon a time, three long years ago, a journey began. We were obedient little munchkins, climbing up stairs meant for giants, carrying heavy backpacks filled with every sort of colored pencil existing on this earth.”

6. University of Wisconsin-Madison Commencement Speech 2017

Steven Levitan, creator of the award-winning show “Modern Family,” was the commencement speaker at the University of Wisconsin-Madison for the graduating class of 2017. This is a good example to follow if you’re an alum of the college you’re presenting to.

“It’s hard to believe I graduated here 33 years ago. I still have the official university photo of me receiving my diploma wearing only shorts under my cap and gown and holding a big bottle of champagne, as if to say, ‘Hey world, lower your expectations.'”

7. Mark Zuckerberg’s Harvard University Commencement Speech

Successful people are often chosen as commencement speakers for university graduation ceremonies. See how the CEO and founder of Facebook is able to portray humility in relating to the 2017 graduating class at Harvard University.

“I’m honored to be with you today because, let’s face it, you accomplished something I never could. If I get through this speech, it’ll be the first time I actually finish something at Harvard. Class of 2017, congratulations!”

8. Al Roker’s Commencement Speech at Champlain College

Upon receiving his doctorate degree of humane letters, the “Today Show” weather anchor delivered an inspirational speech to the graduating class. Roker speaks to the class’s generation and relates his graduation speech topic back to his own upbringing.

“Be in the moment. Stop living through your screen. Experience it now.”

9. Steve Jobs’ Commencement Speech at Stanford University

The Apple CEO’s commencement speech at 2005 to the graduating class at Stanford University is one of the classics. Jobs tells stories about his own experiences with dropping out of college, being fired from Apple, and being diagnosed with cancer.

“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 the other opinion drown out your own inner voice. And, most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition.”

10. Elementary School Graduation Speech

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pVOQVsbkmbM

This fifth-grade class speaker relates her teacher’s message to a lesson from her grandfather as her opening hook .

“To survive the fifth grade is not barely making it through. Instead, to survive means to perform with distinction.

11. Ellen Degeneres Commencement Speech at Tulane University

The famous talk show host and comedian Ellen Degeneres’s commencement speech at Tulane University is a great example of how a guest speaker can identify with her audience.

“It was so important for me to lose everything because I found what the most important thing is. The most important thing is to be true to yourself.”

12. University of Texas at Austin 2014 Commencement Address

Rear Admiral William H. McRaven aims to inspire his audience right from the beginning. The rear admiral encourages the graduating class to change the world, relating everyday life struggles to those of the people in the military.

“If you want to change the world, start off by making your bed.”

13. Matthew McConaughey Commencement Speech

Oscar-winning actor Matthew McConaughey drew from his own personal story to deliver an inspirational commencement speech at the University of Houston. McConaughey gives the graduating class 13 life lessons, including to define success for yourself and find joy in your work.

“Prioritize who you are and who you want to be. Don’t spend time with anything that antagonizes your character.”

14. Commencement Address by Jim Carrey

In his commencement address at Maharishi University of Management, actor Jim Carrey tells an emotional personal story. Carrey uses emotion to encourage the graduating class to walk their own path and never settle in life.

“Your need for acceptance can make you invisible in this world. Don’t let anything stand in the way of the light that shines through this form. Risk being seen in all of your glory.”

15. Stephen Colbert’s Commencement Speech at Wake Forest University

The famous comedian delivers a witty and funny graduation speech, offering students practical advice for the real world.

“And if there’s one thing you need even more, it’s your own set of standards. It may seem counterintuitive now, but once you leave here, you may miss being graded on all your work. Because when you’re out of school, there are no objective criteria for achievement anymore.”

16. Inspiring Graduation Speech

In this remarkable graduation speech, the class valedictorian makes a political statement by publicly revealing her status as an undocumented immigrant. The speech starts out with jokes, but turns into a moving performance that’s as powerful as it is fun to watch.

“To each and every single one of you, I say thank you. You taught me that it’s okay to be different and that there will always be people willing to overlook those differences and accept you for being yourself.”

17. Funny Graduation Speech

This class-elected graduation speaker has the perfect delivery of well-crafted jokes and one-liners throughout her speech. She keeps the whole class laughing and never misses a beat.

“I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t looking forward to pursuing an additional 4-year education – which I can’t afford.”

18. Moving Graduation Speech

This college graduation speech educates listeners about women’s education through the eyes of the speaker, who encountered resistance to seeking an education just because she was a woman. It’s nearly impossible to listen to this speech without feeling moved to take action.

“I couldn’t have imagined attending college, simply because we weren’t allowed to. My sisters weren’t allowed to; the girls before me weren’t allowed to.”

19. Funny Graduation Speech

This graduation speech by the senior class president is humorous and engaging. The class president reminisces with plenty of jokes in a speech full of fun memories and just the right amount of inspiration.

“I know we can all agree that this class is resilient. We survived an earthquake, two blackouts, and Ebola.”

20. Short Graduation Speech

Graduation ceremonies can be long, but the speeches don’t have to be. This short graduation speech uses an “ABCs of life” format to pack a lot of power into a short amount of time. The class president gets wild applause from the audience for his quick but clever speech.

“We must Q – quit quitting, and R – run the race with patience.”

Thank teachers and your parents or other family members for their support, encouragement, help, aid or personal assistance during your years of studying.
Praise accomplishments and achievements of the class.
Reflect upon the past years, what has changed and is interesting enough to share with all?
Mention funny and exciting events, you can opt for funny oneliners or even small innocent jokes, poems or quotations from famous people if you like.
Motivate your fellow students and teachers and professors to look to the bright future:
I continue with the 10 most wanted and popular graduation speech topics:
Give advice, but avoid boring cliches that are totally not surprising.
Entertain by telling humorous anecdotes and vivid stories. Offer an account of an interesting or humorous incident.
Express the feelings of the class. But do not go over the top.
Say farewell to all attendees. This acknowledgment at parting is the warming-up for the next and final step
Wish the graduates of your class all the best and thank them for listening.

Don’t forget to:

Thank the parents and family. Have your class honor them with applause. Not only have they made sure you showed up to school, there’s a host of other responsibilities that parents have sacrificed to accomplish for you. Now is your moment to focus on them for a minute or so.

Thank the teachers and administrators. Each teacher or professor works many long hours that you don’t see in the classroom, and many have poured their hearts and lives into teaching. Take this moment to make it worth it for them.

Use some of my vote of thanks example expressions to feed you imagination for topics for graduation speech a little bit.

Make the address personal. When you decide to make your graduation speech personal, you will experience much bigger success. It will also be more fun to write and deliver a talk that brings high school or college to a close with recognition of the small things in education life. The memories you will run across looking through yearbooks and talking about with friends will be priceless for you as well.

Calm the nerves. It is very intimidating to address hundreds of people in the audience while delivering a graduation speech. Many of us have fear of public speaking. Before you proceed, do this test. And practice the tips.

Consider including:

STORIES Include stories about your school. These high school graduation speech topics can be about teachers and funny things that have happened over the year.

EVENTS Include motivational or moving events that may have happened – perhaps volunteer opportunities that have changed the students’ perspective. Make sure that any major events that have happened are recognized.

Sports and music events that have been important to the school need to be recognized, even if it happened in one of the prior years of your class and not the graduating year.

CLASS EXPERIENCE Bring the class experience alive for those attending the graduation. Grandparents and parents, as well as siblings, have heard the names from school.

Bring the people to the campus life that they have heard about.

DECEASED If a fellow student or teacher has died, mention that person. Make it not a funeral obituary eulogy but recognize them for the family who might be present.

PROJECTS Mention any projects that the school has undertaken; if you have been involved in a community garden or other volunteer organization give credit for the impact it has made.

Pet Peeve Speech Topics

Commemorative Speech

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Graduation Speech Examples

50 top graduation speech ideas (& examples).

Try to search online and you’ll find a lot of graduation speech examples. If you’re in charge of giving a speech during this important event, you have the choice of whether to compose a long or short graduation speech. As long as you’re able to convey your message, the length isn’t that relevant.

Table of Contents

1 Graduation Speech Examples
2 What should you write about in your graduation speech?
3 Graduation Speech Outlines
4 Structuring your graduation speech
5 Graduation Speech Templates
6 High School Graduation Speech
7 Tips for writing graduation speech
8 College Graduation Speech

What should you write about in your graduation speech?

Most people wonder what to write for their graduation speech examples. Whether you need to compose a high school graduation speech example or a college graduation speech example, you must put a lot of careful thought and consideration into the contents of your speech.

In the past, writing a graduation speech template wasn’t that intimidating. But now, you should remember that there’s a high likelihood that the people present at the event will post your speech on social media sites such as Facebook and YouTube. This makes it imperative that you compose a speech that’s effective, interesting, and won’t end up offending anyone.

A lot of incredible speakers start their speech-writing process by creating an outline. So, if you want to come up with a great speech, you may want to start off with a graduation speech outline . Here, you include everything you want to include in your speech. From there, writing becomes easier.

Graduation Speech Outlines

Structuring your graduation speech

When it comes to the structure of your graduation speech, you have a few options to choose from. As you create your graduation speech outline, you’re giving it a structure for you to follow when it’s time to start writing.

You may create a long or short graduation speech depending on how much you want to say and how long you want to stand in front of the graduating class. You can even create a graduation speech template using the structure of your choice. This makes it easier for you for the next time you need to come up with a speech.

If you have no idea where to start, you may go online and read high school graduation speech examples or college graduation speech examples. Use these as your reference or for your inspiration as you write your speech.

Graduation Speech Templates

Either way, these examples will be a great help to you if it’s your first time to compose such a speech. To guide you, here are some structures to follow for your graduation speech:

Use a few themes which you illustrate with non-fictional or personal stories For this type of speech, you can use a couple of themes which you introduce early in your speech. From reaching their dreams of finding their own place in the world, there are so many themes to choose from. Then illustrate these themes further using non-fictional examples or stories from your personal life.
Use several themes which you illustrate with short anecdotes or personal stories For this structure, you come up with a number of themes for your audiences. But instead of sharing those themes at the start of your speech, you share short anecdotes or personal stories which illustrate those themes. Then you give helpful advice to your audience to help them in their future endeavors. However, this structure isn’t ideal for short graduation speeches. Since you’re going to use several themes, this means that your speech would be relatively long. Therefore, it’s probably a good idea to use this for a college graduation speech, not one for a high school graduation .
Use an autobiographical narrative If you plan to use this structure for your graduation speech examples, it means that you want to open up and share more details about your life to your audience. It’s sort of like a mini-memoir wherein the audience learns a lot about the experiences you’ve had in your personal life. As you share these experiences, you also share a lot of life lessons with them. Although you don’t give advice directly at the beginning of your speech, you would incorporate these little bits of advice throughout your speech. Talk about your own experiences after graduation, how you dealt with the real world, and how you overcame different kinds of challenges.
Use the main theme and some personal references Finally, you can also structure your speech in such a way that you’re leading up to one main theme or point. A lot of people find this structure to be extremely difficult to put together because they feel like it’s too limited. But as long as you create a graduation speech outline, following this structure won’t be that much of a challenge.

High School Graduation Speech

Tips for writing graduation speech

Whether you’re representing the graduation class or you’re asked to come and give a speech to the graduating class, you have to come up with your own graduation speech. The good news is that there are a lot of graduation speech examples which you can use as a reference.

Writing a graduation speech doesn’t have to be a difficult task. As long as you have an idea of what to write and you know what you want to say to the graduating class, the words will start flowing from your mind. But if you need some help, here are some tips to guide you:

Brainstorming Any great speech starts with a brainstorming session. You can begin by asking yourself what you want to write in your speech. If you’re the representative of the graduating class, then think about all of the learning and experiences you’ve gained throughout your education. If they asked you to speak for the graduating class, then think about the advice you want to share to them in order to inspire them and somehow prepare them for what’s to come. Brainstorming involves a lot of thought, especially about the future. There’s nothing wrong with talking about the past and the present but since you’ll speak to a graduating class, talking about the future is much more relevant. As you think about the things to say, write everything down on a piece of paper. Later on, you can review your ideas to see which ones to keep and which ones to remove from your speech.
Choosing a theme After your brainstorming session, you’d have a lot of ideas, stories, and advice to share to your audience. Now it’s time to begin shaping all of these into one coherent speech. To do this, you may want to think about the theme to focus on for your speech. Whether you want to choose a single theme or a collection of themes which you will link with one another, this step makes speech writing easier. Also, having a theme makes the speech more memorable and impactful to the audience. With a theme, you’ll also be able to sort through the things you’ve written down more effectively only choosing the ones which relate to your theme.
Building the structure After you’ve identified the theme, you can start building the structure of your graduation speech. Here are some steps to help you out: Make sure that your introductory statement grabs the attention of your audience right away. In other words, get the audience “hooked” from the beginning so they will feel compelled to listen to your entire speech. Illustrate the theme you’ve chosen by telling stories. Keep in mind that the best stories always have a beginning with a challenge or obstacle, a middle where you share how you overcame it, and an end where you discussed how this experience helped you grow. For the end of your speech, tie together all of the points you’ve discussed throughout your speech. Also, make it clear how your message applies to your audience. You may also share valuable advice to your audience in the conclusion of your speech.
Practicing your delivery Even after you’ve written your speech, the work doesn’t end there. You also have to deliver it to the graduating class. For a lot of people, this part is a lot more intimidating, especially for those who aren’t used to speaking in front of an audience. Here are some pointers for you: If you’ve created a short graduation speech, you may want to try memorizing it. This helps you focus on your delivery to make it more personable. Don’t speak too fast even when you’re feeling nervous. Try practicing in front of friends and family so you can learn how to consciously slow down your speaking rate. Once in a while, pause during the delivery of your speech. You can either pause to emphasize your point or to give the audience some time to consider what you’ve said. If you want to keep your audience engaged, make eye contact. Don’t feel stressed or stop if you make any mistake. Just continue with your speech.
Other tips for you Don’t forget to thank everyone who helped you on your journey. If you aren’t part of the graduating class, thank the person who invited you to give the speech. Be as lively and enthusiastic as possible when delivering your speech. If it’s your first time to deliver a speech, practice again and again. Have fun with it! Feeling stressed won’t help.

College Graduation Speech

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Student Graduation Speech

Student graduation speech generator.

A graduation ceremony marks a pivotal moment, offering a blend of joy, nostalgia, and anticipation for the future. Crafting a memorable student graduation speech can be challenging, but it’s an opportunity to inspire and reflect. This comprehensive guide provides detailed insights and practical tips to help you create an impactful address. Filled with inspiring speech examples , it’s tailored to guide you through the process of composing a speech that resonates with your audience and leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re seeking to inspire, reminisce, or motivate, our guide, complete with speech examples, is your go-to resource for delivering a message that captures the essence of this significant milestone.

What is a Student Graduation Speech? A Student Graduation Speech is a special talk given by a student during a graduation ceremony. It’s a moment where the student shares their experiences, celebrates achievements, and gives thanks to teachers, family, and friends. The speech often includes memories from school, lessons learned, and hopes for the future. It’s a way for the student to say goodbye to one chapter of their life and welcome the next with excitement and optimism. This speech is a memorable part of the graduation ceremony, marking the end of school and the beginning of a new journey.

In addition to that, a student graduation speech is also a good way to show or to tell students that they have finally achieved what they wanted in life. Basically the purpose of a student graduation speech is to make sure that each student knows what their professors and other students feel during this time. Graduation speeches can sometimes get very emotional, depending on who may be presenting the speech and how it was delivered. Often than not, it is considered normal for a lot of people to be very emotional when presenting a student graduation speech. To know about how to write one, let’s move on to how to write a good student graduation speech.

Download Student Graduation Speech Bundle

Download Graduation Speech Bundle

This is especially true for those who are graduating this year or for those who are going to be passing through and going forward. For students, this is the best day of their lives, the freedom, the path to choose what they can want and can get. However, when there is graduation, there is always that one thing students seem to not be able to escape. Making a graduation speech. Of course, a lot of students would say this is going to be easy now because of the practice they went through. But how do you make a good graduation speech? Where do you even begin? Am I confusing you? Don’t worry, I got you covered.

Student Graduation Speech Format

Introduction.

Greeting : Start with a warm welcome to guests, teachers, family, and fellow graduates. Personal Introduction : Briefly introduce yourself. Acknowledgment of the Occasion : Express the significance of the graduation day.

Reflections on the Journey : Share memorable experiences and lessons learned during school years. Memories : Highlight special moments and achievements. Challenges Overcome : Discuss obstacles faced and how they were overcome. Gratitude : Express thanks to teachers, family, and friends for their support. Current Feelings : Talk about emotions associated with graduating, like excitement, nostalgia, or anticipation for the future. Lessons Learned : Share valuable insights or life lessons gained during school years.

Future Outlook

Hopes and Dreams : Discuss aspirations and goals for the future. Call to Action : Encourage fellow graduates to pursue their dreams with determination and courage. Inspirational Message : Offer a motivational thought or quote to inspire the graduating class.

Closing Remarks : Summarize the key points of your speech. Final Thanks : Express gratitude to the audience for listening. Farewell Message : End with a heartfelt farewell, wishing everyone success in their future endeavors.

Best Graduation Speech

Ladies and Gentlemen, Honored Guests, Teachers, Family, and my Fellow Graduates, Today marks a pivotal moment in our lives. As I stand here, I am overwhelmed with memories and emotions. Our journey through these halls has been nothing short of remarkable. Firstly, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our dedicated teachers and school staff. Your unwavering support and guidance have been our guiding star. To our families, your love and sacrifices have shaped us into the individuals we are today. Your belief in our dreams has been our strongest foundation. Looking back, our school years were filled with learning, not just from textbooks, but from every experience. We learned the value of friendship, the importance of hard work, and the power of perseverance. We celebrated victories, learned from our failures, and grew stronger with each challenge. But today is not just about reminiscing. It’s about embracing the future. As we step out into the world, let’s carry the lessons and memories with us. Let’s approach the future with courage and optimism, ready to make our mark and create positive change. In closing, I leave you with this thought: Let’s not just dream about the future; let’s be the architects of it. As we go forth, may we always remember where we came from and who we are. To my fellow graduates, congratulations! Our adventure begins now. Thank You.

Student Graduation Speech [Text Version]

Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed faculty members, distinguished guests, and beloved family and friends, On this momentous occasion, I stand before you with a heart brimming with gratitude and excitement. As we gather here to celebrate our achievements, I am deeply humbled by the journey that has led us to this significant milestone. Reflecting on our collective journey, it is undeniable that our relentless hard work, unwavering dedication, and steadfast perseverance have been the driving forces behind our success. Each step we’ve taken, every challenge we’ve faced, has molded us into the individuals we are today. As we reminisce on the past years, let us cherish the memories we’ve created together. From late-night study sessions to unforgettable experiences shared, these moments have woven the fabric of our unique and remarkable journey as a graduating class. Throughout our academic pursuits, we have not only gained knowledge but also nurtured personal and professional growth. The challenges we encountered along the way have been formidable, but through resilience and teamwork, we have emerged stronger and more determined than ever. To our esteemed educators, mentors, and dedicated school staff, we owe a profound debt of gratitude. Your guidance, wisdom, and unwavering support have been instrumental in shaping our paths and fueling our aspirations. To our cherished family members and friends, thank you for being our pillars of strength, unwavering sources of encouragement, and constant sources of love and support. Your belief in us has been our greatest motivation. As we stand on the threshold of the future, let us embrace the infinite possibilities that lie ahead. Let us nurture our dreams, pursue our passions, and strive to make a positive impact on the world around us. Remember, learning is a lifelong journey, and our thirst for knowledge should never cease. In the words of the great philosopher Aristotle, “The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet.” Let us carry the lessons, memories, and friendships we’ve cultivated during our time here as we embark on the next chapter of our lives. So, my fellow graduates, as we bid farewell to this chapter and step into the vast unknown, let us do so with courage, conviction, and unwavering determination. For the future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. Congratulations to the graduating class of [Year]! May our paths be filled with success, fulfillment, and endless possibilities. Thank you.

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How to Write a Student Graduation Speech?

Are you tasked to write a student graduation speech or are you simply curious as to how a student graduation speech looks and how it is written. Regardless of the reason, and if you are interested, here are some five simple tips to get you started on writing. How to write a student graduation speech?

1. Always Introduce Yourself to the Crowd

When you get up on that stage, thank the person who made the speech or who made the introduction first. Do this before reading your speech. It is seen as something polite and should be done. In addition to that, introduce yourself whether the person before you did or did not. Never assume that everyone in the crowd knows you. Remember, the people in the crowd are a mixture of students, your classmates, teachers, faculty and parents. There is only a few percent chance they can remember you or know you.

2. Share Your Experience in a Story

Another thing you can do when making a speech is to share your experience in the form of a story. Let your fellow graduates feel the same thing you felt or at least at some point. Tell your story so others could learn from your struggles and from the sweet rewards of graduating. Your experience may be different from others or may have at least a few things that are common, but your experience is there to awaken what it was like for students to struggle and feel the joy of a fruitful future. Think of how you would write your own personal statement . But the difference is it is a speech than just a short narrative essay .

3. Add an Inspiring Quote

One of the best ways to inspire and to get through your audience is to share an inspiring quote. Your quote must match that of your speech that you need not have to explain what it means. There are a lot of inspiring quotes, but you can also make your own.

4. Give Everyone Some Good Advice

Part of your speech should also be about giving people some good advice. Especially those students who may be graduating with you who are younger. Be the big person here and show them that with a lot of sacrifices, there will always be a rainbow after every thunderstorm. A brighter side of things. However, make it that they would find it good enough and not that they may get annoyed or disappointed. This means that when you say it, say it in a polite manner.

5. Thank Everyone for Attending the Event

Last but not the least, add graduation thank you speech to your graduation speech . Add this when you are about to end your speech. Showing that you appreciate the audience and the time they gave to attend the graduation. Saying this would mean that your speech is done and you would want everyone to be thankful for the people who came to the said event to watch.

How does a student start a graduation speech?

1.Express Gratitude:

Start by expressing gratitude to teachers, parents, mentors, and fellow students for their support and contributions throughout the academic journey. Thanking the audience creates a positive atmosphere from the beginning.

Example: “Good evening, honored guests, teachers, parents, and my amazing fellow graduates. I stand before you today with immense gratitude in my heart for the incredible support we’ve received on this journey.”

2. Use a Quote:

Begin with a relevant and inspiring quote that encapsulates the theme of the speech. Quotes can provide depth and immediately capture the audience’s attention.

Example: “As Nelson Mandela once said, ‘Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.’ Today, we celebrate not just the end of our academic journey but the beginning of our mission to make a difference.”

3. Tell a Personal Story:

Share a brief, relatable personal anecdote that connects to the overarching message of the speech. Personal stories can create an emotional connection with the audience.

Example: “Allow me to take you back to the first day of school when we were wide-eyed freshmen, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. Little did we know that this place would become our second home, filled with laughter, challenges, and lifelong friendships.”

4. Ask a Rhetorical Question:

Pose a thought-provoking rhetorical question that engages the audience’s curiosity and encourages them to reflect on the journey ahead.

Example: “What does it truly mean to graduate? Is it merely receiving a diploma, or is it about the knowledge gained, the friendships formed, and the transformations within ourselves? Today, we contemplate not just our achievements but the infinite possibilities that lie before us.”

5. Use Humor:

Start with a light-hearted, witty remark or humorous anecdote related to the graduation experience. Humor can instantly capture the audience’s attention and create a warm atmosphere.

Example: “Ladies and gentlemen, if someone had told me four years ago that I would be standing here giving a speech, I would have thought they were joking. Yet, here I am, trying not to trip over my own excitement. Life truly is full of surprises!”

6. Acknowledge the Significance of the Moment:

Begin by acknowledging the importance of the graduation day, recognizing it as a pivotal moment in the students’ lives and the beginning of a new chapter.

Example: “Today is more than just a ceremony; it’s a milestone. It marks the culmination of years of hard work, late-night study sessions, and the unwavering determination that brought us to this moment. Today, we stand on the threshold of a future waiting to be shaped by our dreams and ambitions.”

What should I say in my high school graduation speech?

1. Introduction

Begin by expressing gratitude to the school, teachers, parents, and fellow students. Acknowledge the significance of the moment and the honor of addressing the graduating class.

2. Reflect on the Journey

Share personal reflections on your high school experience. Discuss memorable moments, challenges, and the growth you and your classmates have undergone.

3. Acknowledge Achievements

Recognize the accomplishments of your fellow graduates, including academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and personal growth.

4. Inspire and Encourage

Offer words of inspiration and encouragement to your peers as they embark on the next phase of their lives. Remind them of their potential and resilience.

5. Share Life Lessons

Reflect on the lessons learned during high school, both in and out of the classroom. Discuss how these lessons can be applied to the future.

6. Embrace Diversity:

Celebrate the diversity and unique qualities of your graduating class. Highlight the importance of inclusivity and understanding in a diverse world.

7. Discuss the Future:

Talk about the exciting possibilities and challenges that await graduates as they move on to college, careers, or other pursuits.

8. Express Hope and Optimism:

Convey optimism for the future, emphasizing the potential for positive change and personal growth. Inspire your peers to make a difference in the world.

9. Use Personal Anecdotes:

Share personal stories or anecdotes that connect with the audience and convey your messages effectively.

10. Conclude with Gratitude:

Thank your audience once again for the privilege of speaking and express your optimism about the future.

How do you write a short and sweet graduation speech?

Start with Gratitude: Begin by expressing gratitude to the school, teachers, parents, and fellow graduates for the support and experiences throughout the journey.
Acknowledge Achievements: Recognize the accomplishments and milestones of your graduating class, both academic and personal.
Reflect on the Journey: Share a brief reflection on your high school experience, mentioning memorable moments and challenges.
Inspire and Encourage: Offer a concise message of inspiration and encouragement for your peers as they step into the next chapter of their lives. Encourage them to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact.
Express Hope: Convey optimism and hope for the future, highlighting the potential for success and personal growth.
Use a Memorable Quote: Consider incorporating a well-chosen quote that encapsulates the theme of your speech.
Engage the Audience: Use eye contact, a confident tone, and gestures to engage the audience. Maintain a warm and inclusive atmosphere.
Stay True to Your Voice: Keep your speech authentic and true to your personality and values.

Here’s an example of a short and sweet graduation speech:

“Good evening, honored guests, teachers, parents, and my fellow graduates. As we stand here today on the brink of a new journey, I want to express my gratitude for the experiences and support we’ve shared throughout our high school years. Our achievements, both big and small, have brought us to this moment, and I couldn’t be prouder to call you my classmates. As we move forward, remember that every challenge we faced and overcame has shaped us into the individuals we are today. We are ready to embrace the future with open hearts and unwavering determination. As Dr. Seuss once said, ‘You have brains in your head, you have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose.’

Is it necessary to make a graduation speech?

Some schools require their outstanding graduates to make a graduation speech, while others may not require them. The whole purpose of the speech is to let everyone know that they have done great and should continue to do great things.

What are the elements of a good graduation speech?

The introduction where you are going to be talking about the reason you are here. The body which will be about telling a story, an anecdote, sharing of experiences and hope for the future. It is also the part where you give way to inspire others to keep on pushing their dreams. The conclusion where you give thanks and congratulate on everyone for achieving.

What are the benefits of writing a graduation speech?

The benefits of writing a graduation speech is the opportunity to say thank you and welcome at the same time. To give everyone the opportunity to say we made it in one simple but grand speech. Making a graduation speech is the written and oral way of showing the world that you have made it and will continue to make it.

Why do we need a graduation speech example?

Sometimes, the process of making the perfect speech outline involves long nights and a lot of crumpled papers. We’re either experiencing major writer’s block or we’re just absolutely clueless on what to talk about. Regardless, writing a good speech is not an easy job. Sometimes, we just need a little guidance to get started. This is when references serve their purpose.

How long is a graduation speech?

A graduation speech does not have to be too long nor too short. A single page is enough to make a speech. If the speech is too long, your audience may fall asleep or choose to ignore as it may drag. But if the speech is too short, it may leave an awkward air around the whole event. Make sure that your speech should not last more than five minutes nor less than that.

Graduation speeches can either get very emotional or can be made as a polite way to say thank you. Depending on who writes it and how it is written. It is normal to cry when you’re doing your speech, but it is not okay to not make any eye contact.

Graduation speeches are more than just words; they are the encapsulation of an educational journey, filled with challenges, achievements, and invaluable lessons. They are a platform to inspire, encourage, and impart wisdom to fellow graduates and the audience. As you craft your speech, remember the impact of your words can extend beyond the ceremony, leaving a lasting impression on your listeners. To further explore inspiring examples and advice on crafting impactful graduation speeches, consider visiting the American Institute for Economic Research for a unique perspective on graduation speeches here and the University of Chicago for a collection of student graduation speeches here. These resources offer additional insights and inspiration that can enhance your speechwriting process.

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Ideas for a student graduation speech on achieving dreams

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Student Graduation Speaker Speech

What should a student say in a graduation speech?

4 Tips To Write The Best Valedictorian Speech (With Samples!)

You have a special honor to reflect on the past and inspire your classmates. Use our tips and templates to craft a perfectly memorable speech.

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Congratulations on being Valedictorian!

You made it through the last 4 years, so believe us when we say writing a valedictorian speech doesn’t have to be complicated. Use our templates to write the perfect speech, and don’t miss our cheat sheet of inspirational quotes you can use at the bottom of the article.

Valedictorian Speech FAQ

What is a valedictorian speech?

A valedictorian speech is a graduation speech usually given by the student or students at the top of the graduating class. It is a farewell address to the other students in the graduating class to remember what has been accomplished and give inspiration for the future.

How long should a valedictorian speech be?

A valedictorian speech should be from 5 to 10 minutes long but also check with your school administrators to find out what length they expect. Shorter is usually better.

What are some features of valedictorian speech?

A valedictorian speech should include highlights, lessons learned, people who deserve thanks, and remembrance of anyone who may have died. Wrap up your speech with something motivational.

What should I talk about in a valedictorian speech?

In your valedictorian speech, talk about the shared experiences of your class. Include any significant events and teachers who made a big impact, and include funny stories. Make sure to talk about the past and look forward to the future. See our templates below for more ideas.

How do I end a valedictorian speech?

To end a valedictorian speech, conclude with a final story or a statement that wraps up all your thoughts. End on a high note; remember that your final thoughts are what will stick the longest with your audience.

How to Write a Valedictorian Speech

Step 1: ask around .

What memories will you take with you after you leave high school or college?

Ask other students what their defining memories are, what they learned, and what their hopes are for the future. Remember, this speech is for all of you, so take the time to ask others to share their experiences.

Ask Your Fellow Students These Questions:

What was the funniest moment for our class?
What was a recurring joke from the last few years?
What will our class be known for?
Was there a dramatic event on campus that impacted you?
What dramatic event in the world impacted you the most?
What awards or accomplishments did our teams, clubs, or individuals receive?
Who is your favorite teacher? What are they known for?
Describe the last 4 years at our high school/college/university using 1 word.

Step 2: Check for Themes

Once you’ve talked to others in your graduating class, look for any recurring themes. Write these down, and then think about world and school events that fit in with that theme. Tap into the nostalgia factor as you prepare to say goodbye to your school and classmates.

Example Themes:

Learning from mistakes
Failure as an opportunity for growth
Tenacity in the face of adversity
Learning how to treat each other with kindness
Overcoming the loss of friends or a teacher
Teachers and students who inspire
Overcoming obstacles as a team
Accomplishing unexpected success

The great thing about choosing a theme is it provides you with a focus for the speech. Use your theme to guide what you reflect on and your main point.

For example, if your theme is a failure as an opportunity for growth, you can tell a story about your experience with failure. Give examples of how classmates or teachers encouraged you to use failure as a springboard for success.

Or, say the theme is overcoming obstacles as a team, you can reflect on obstacles that your class may have overcome, including challenges from current events. From there, you can inspire and encourage everyone to view future barriers in light of obstacles that have already been overcome.

Step 3: Use This 3-Part Outline

We know you hoped never to write another outline again. Don’t worry; you can skip the stuffy Roman numerals and break your speech into 3 sections.

Here’s an inspiring outline that is especially suitable for a valedictorian speech:

Gratitude (although this isn’t present in many speeches, this is a key part of a valedictorian speech). What are you grateful for? List the funny moments you are grateful for. The teachers you are most thankful for. The parts of the school that helped you and your class the most.
Reflect (similar to the above outline, reflecting looks at what is and what has happened). Is there an overview you can give of the last four years? What was Freshman year like? Sophomore year? Prom? Any particularly interesting homecomings you can reflect on?
Inspire (inspire your audience in a way that directly links to what you have just reflected on.) What should they remember about the last four years that they should use in the next four years? What lessons have you learned? What can we hope for?

Step 4: Your Opening Line

The hardest part of your valedictorian speech might be the opening line. But don’t worry–we have some ideas for you in our video below!

Never Start a Presentation with…

Anything technical! People make this big mistake when they have not done a tech check ahead of time or are feeling nervous. Never start with these openers:

Is this microphone working?

Can you hear me?

Wow, these lights are bright!

Your nervousness. Many people think it is vulnerable to start with how nervous they are about speaking — you can mention this later, but it should not be the first thing. Why? People will then only be looking for signs of your nervousness. Don’t start with:

I’m so nervous right now!

Wow, there are so many people here.

I’m not a great public speaker.

A lackluster or non-believable nicety. It’s great to be grateful to the person who introduced you, but it’s not a great way to include the audience. It’s ok to thank the audience for being there—but do it at the end (not as your opening line). These are all too boring:

Thanks for having me.

Thanks for that intro.

Nice to be here.

Boring! One exception here is if you can make it funny. Ken Robinson started with a nicety and then turned it into a joke. He said, ” “Good morning. How are you? It’s been great, hasn’t it? I’ve been blown away by the whole thing. I’m leaving.”

Action Step: Instead, start with a big idea, an important question, or a story, or grab one of our inspirational quotes below. These immediately capture attention. More Speech Opener Ideas here .

Step 5: Practice Like It’s Real

Practice your speech like it’s dress rehearsal:

Grab a parent or grandparent. Ask supportive friends and family, but don’t ask anyone that makes you nervous. For now, you’re building confidence. If you don’t want to practice with other people watching, record yourself giving the speech so you can rewatch it and notice any areas you can improve.
Wear your graduation outfit. If you already have your cap and gown, wear that as well.
Practice in a similar environment. For example, practice the speech in your backyard if the graduation is going to be outside. Will you be at a podium? Try to practice with a high table.

Pro Tip: If you plan to wear heels, ensure you’re comfortable walking up and down stairs. If you aren’t, practice wearing the shoes you’ve picked, or consider wearing different shoes.

Bonus Step 6: Learn the Art of Stage Presence

Did you know that public speaking is actually a skill? Many people struggle with stage anxiety because they feel they ‘missed the memo’ on public speaking or they are lacking because they do not have a natural stage presence. Not true!

Stage presence and public speaking are skills you need to be taught—very few people have them naturally.

Watch our video below to learn the 7 steps to overcome stage fright and beat performance anxiety:

Here are all the aspects of public speaking you can master.

How to make a first impression with an audience
How to have stage presence
Powerful body language
How to speak with a commanding voice
What to do with your hands while speaking

For every speaking skill you add to your toolbox, the less speaking anxiety you will feel.

If you want help really diving into your presentation skills, be sure to sign-up for our course…

Master Your People Skills

Create a Memorable Presence
Communicate with Confidence
Achieve Your Goals

Have a question about the presentation or People School? Email Science of People support .

Valedictorian Speech Examples

High school valedictorian speech template.

This template uses Nancy Duarte’s 4-step outline of what could be and a promise for a new norm.

Include funny or interesting pop culture and world events.
Add an anecdote for humor.
Tie it to your chosen theme.

Over the last four years, we have been devastated by the unacceptable ending of Game of Thrones, faced a global meltdown, and fought for #FreeBritney. And while most of us won’t remember the limits, differentiation, and integration needed for Calculus—sorry, Mrs. Meyers—we have learned what it means to persevere in the face of personal and global challenges.

What Could Be: Use the theme to point to something positive you can attain as a class.

As we leave this point, we look forward to an uncertain but beautiful future. Despite the obstacles we may face, there is so much opportunity in front of us.

What Is: Give some anecdotes of accomplishments and awards from your class. Include names and make the stories specific but concise.

I know this because I’ve seen you overcome obstacles and accomplish big and small things. We’ve been inspired by the likes of Larry Owen, who showed great tenacity while recovering from his life-threatening football injury; the kindness of Jill Knight, our class president, who spearheaded the fundraiser to help hungry children; and so many others. When we raised money for Ukrainian refugees, we learned that each of us has the power to impact the world when we work together.

What Could Be: Drive home the theme again.

That power doesn’t stop when we leave this school. As we make decisions about the future, we enter the world with our eyes wide open, determined to make the changes required to secure our future and care for our earth.

What is: Transition into thanking anyone who needs to be thanked, and include anyone you are grateful for. Be specific about why you are thanking them, and have a quick anecdote if it’s relevant.

On behalf of myself and my fellow graduates, I want to thank some of the people who have brought us here.

Mr. Knitt taught us to think about the consequences of our actions. That’s a lesson I didn’t enjoy, but one I won’t forget.

Mr. Owen was always there when we needed someone to talk to, and he taught us that it’s essential to listen even when we don’t know what to say.

Ms. Jackson may have had the most challenging quizzes, but she also encouraged us to push ourselves to accomplish more than we thought possible. A big thank you to all teachers, administrators, and our families.

Promise/New Norm: Close with any final thoughts, and include a quote if you like.

Today, we graduate! As we go out from this place, I want to leave you with this quote from Marcus Aurelius Antoninus, the emperor of Rome.

“Never let the future disturb you. If you have to, you will meet it with the same weapons of reason which today arm you against the present.”

Class of —!

College Valedictorian Speech Template

This template uses the 3-part outline of thank, reflect, and inspire.

Gratitude: Start your speech with something funny, like a quote or something attention-grabbing, then lead into thanking the people who have helped you get to where you are.

The comedian Lily Tomlin once said, “I always wanted to be somebody, but now I realize I should have been more specific.”

Each of us is on the path to becoming somebody, and we are thankful for the teachers, administrators, and family who have shown us glimpses of who we can become.

Reflect: Reflect on the past and how that interfaces with the future. Think about what you have learned from the time you spent getting your degree.

Unexpected moments of both uncertainty and joy filled the past four years. As you look back at the late-night studying, the endless papers, and the assigned reading, you should be proud of what you have accomplished.

You have invested in your future, and now your future is suddenly not far off but within your reach.

It’s a bit scary, isn’t it? We’ve worked so hard to reach this moment, but it’s not the end of the journey; it is only the start of a new adventure.

What can we take with us as we go out into the world? What lessons have we learned that will carry us forward?

During my time at ___ University, I’ve realized that success is not my GPA, my social status, or even my potential to get a job in my career of choice. I’ve learned the people who influence the world are those who prioritize kindness and strength of character. People like Professor Scoggins, who invested in me, pushing me further than I thought possible, and like Mr. Robbins, who does maintenance on campus—he always has a kind word for anyone who stops to talk to him.

I am more confident today, not because I hold a degree in my hands, but because of the friendships I have formed and the obstacles I have overcome.

Inspire: Use the lessons learned from the past to inspire your fellow graduates to go into the world and embrace the future.

Let us not pursue success and recognition as we go into the future. Instead, let us pursue kindness and generosity, believing each person to be valuable and worthy of our respect.

I leave you with this quote from Bob Marley: “The greatness of a man is not in how much wealth he acquires, but in his integrity and his ability to affect those around him positively.”

Thank you, everyone, and congratulations!

Get Inspired By Great Speeches

When writing your speech, think about what makes you unique. Instead of confining yourself to an expected template, use your personality and giftings to create a memorable speech.

Everyone appreciates humor; if you can make your audience laugh, you’ll leave a lasting impression. Make the humor meaningful, like this Harvard speech. They playfully talk about how to remember the past while moving into the future.

If you can’t be funny, be passionate. This speech from a Plano Senior High School Graduation isn’t amusing but filled with passion and encouragement. In under five minutes, Hana Lone recalls some of the shared memories of the graduating class and motivates listeners to be successful and kind people.

Bonus Speech: What Not to Do

As you prepare your speech, remember it’s not an autobiography of your accomplishments or experiences. A great valedictorian speech is about your shared experience as a class. While Rory Gilmore’s address from The Gilmore Girls made us all cry, it’s a great example of what NOT to do in real life. Not everyone has a shared interest in you and your success, so skip the self-focus and keep your speech directed to your graduating class.

Cheat Sheet of Inspirational Quotes

If you can’t think of anything inspiring to say, an inspirational quote never fails to be… inspiring. We’ve gathered some of the best quotes to use in your speech.

The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. —Eleanor Roosevelt, Diplomat & activist

The future depends on what we do in the present. —Mahatma Gandhi, Lawyer and activist

Stop being a prisoner of your past. Become the architect of your future. —Robin Sharma, Canadian writer

We did not come to fear the future. We came here to shape it. —Barack Obama, Former US president doing the best at this moment, puts you in the best place for the next moment. —Oprah Winfrey, Talk show host & businesswoman

Success isn’t always about ‘greatness.’ It’s about consistency. Consistent, hard work gains success. —Dwayne Johnson, Actor & businessman

We have a choice. To Live or To Exist. –Harry Styles, Singer-songwriter & actor

Never let the future disturb you. You will meet it, if you have to, with the same weapons of reason which today arm you against the present. —Marcus Aurelius Antoninus, Roman emperor and philosopher

The greatness of a man is not in how much wealth he acquires, but in his integrity and his ability to affect those around him positively. —Bob Marley, Singer-songwriter

The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members. —Coretta Scott King, Activist & civil right leaders

You have to expect things from yourself before you can do them. —Michael Jordan, a Professional basketball player

I’ve failed over & over & over again in my life & that is why I succeed. -–Michael Jordan, a Professional basketball player

You can’t put a limit on anything. The more you dream, the farther you get. -–Michael Phelps, a Competitive swimmer

It’s hard to beat a person who never gives up. —Babe Ruth, a Professional baseball player

Now that you know how to write your speech, learn how to deliver it. Use these 15 Science-Based Public Speaking Tips to Be a Master Speaker.

Watch our video below to learn how to work a stage like a pro!

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Sample Speech by School Principal on Graduation Ceremony

Your excellence ____________, Minister of State for Youth Affairs, governing board members, school staff, parents, and honored guests, welcome to our 15th graduation ceremony.

Today marks both an end and a new beginning for our graduates. A time for parents to both honor their child’s accomplishments and a time to worry as they embark on their next journey.

But parents let me put your mind at ease, your child is very well prepared for whatever they choose to peruse after [School Name].

Through the education and the knowledge that they have, and most importantly the guidance, values and the love that you, the parents, have provided to your children, now they are ready to face any challenge.

Today we celebrate dedication and love. Parents, you must be proud of your child and yourselves. On behalf of the school and the students, I want to say: thank you.

Teachers, you have been a key element in the children’s education. Your unconditional support has inspired and encouraged them to achieve their best at [School Name]. Your planning, teaching, and encouraging have come to fruition. How proud you must be today to see your students with bags of good character, lifelong learning skills, and integrity. Your support and dedication cannot be stressed enough. None of this is possible without you. On behalf of the students and the parents, I want to say: thank you.

[School Name] is committed to creating an innovative and a creative education system and to prepare students for a rapidly changing world. We are keen to achieve excellence in education and to ensure relevance, quality, and balance among intellectual, and physical elements in the learning process.

Our mission is to empower and educate students though engaging them in positive student-centered education that balances academic excellence with physical, social and emotional well-being. Massive investments have been planned to create systems based on the requirements of the National Agenda. We are prepared today as we have always been.

Graduates, our warmth congratulations. Just 14 short years ago, you wondered into the kindergarten classroom to start your learning journey. Today, you are about to walk through the school gates as students for one last time.

You took all the knowledge and attention your parents provided and molded it into your own character, making you the fine young ladies and gentlemen that you are today.

Don’t you forget where you came from. Remember the foundation of your family and your society, build upon it and use it to guide you in everything that you do. Stick to the values, morals, and ethics that you were raised into and honor them in every day of your life.

Don’t focus on the negatives and the obstacles that prevent you from reaching your goals. Have a positive outlook at the world. It will make it easier for you to be successful.

I hope that each one of you finds themselves on a stage big enough to have great influence, proclaiming truth and fairness and making a significant difference to the world. From my part, I strongly believe that the future of our society is in very capable hands.

Don’t you ever give up and don’t be afraid of failure. It is ok to fail as long as you learn something from it. The only better thing better than winning, is losing then winning again. Try again, and again, and you shall find success.

Don’t worry if you still don’t know what you want from life. As a matter of fact, some of the most interesting and successful people that I know, still don’t. Life is a journey, and as long as you enjoy it and do what is good for you, your family, and your society, then you are on the right track.

Focus on your goals but don’t live by them. Don’t be afraid of change. Change is a fundamental aspect of our lives. What you want today may be different from what you want ten years from now. That is perfectly normal.

Everything is up for grabs and you can become anything that you desire. You can accomplish anything that you want. Nothing is impossible. We are so proud of what you have evolved to become. You have so much to offer to the world and we are eagerly waiting.

Congratulations to you and to your families. I wish each and every one of you the best of luck, success, and happiness.

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

The Speaker Lab
March 7, 2024

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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Principal Graduation Speeches - Cohesive Commitment and Cooperation

Principal graduation speeches - words of wisdom for a farewell speech that pays tribute to all the stakeholders!

Principal graduation speeches are great. You can use them as a guideline to structure your own personalized speech.

Use the aspects that are relevant to you; lose the parts that may be redundant and then...most importantly...add your own special personal touch .

Good quotes for graduation speeches leave a lingering and memorable note - so try and weave one or two pertinent quotes into your high school graduation speech.

Good Evening Honored Guests , Ladies and Gentlemen - [insert specific details of special guests here if necessary]

A graduation ceremony is always such a special occasion - the culmination of years of hard work; the actualization of goals attained and the acknowledgement of successes achieved. So, it is only fitting that tonight we commemorate the road that we have all traveled together these last few years.

It has been a journey that started with tentative steps perhaps, but one that has taken us to remarkable heights. We have encountered some trials and tribulations along the way...soldiered on and come out the stronger for them. We have experienced exceptional moments, magical moments and created memories that will be fondly remembered in the years ahead.

Henry Ford wisely said, "Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress and working together is success." As we look back over the last few years, certainly there was a beginning, and thankfully there was also progress and yes - undeniably we have been successful!

But let's begin where all good stories begin - at the beginning!

Who can forget when we all came together for the first time - nervous young students in the [insert grade] , proud parents, the Board of Governors and a dedicated staff body. What a commencement ceremony it was, signaling what would be the start of wonderful things to come. Yes, we all came together with a common purpose in mind - to encourage and develop lifelong learning in the young Ladies and Gentlemen who sit before us this evening.

Steadfast, resolute and determined we all kept together. Day-by-day we focused on our goal, keeping together and working together. We faced some incredible and memorable moments - moments that we chose to use as stepping stone as we tenaciously pursued our common goals. And what progress we made, as just a few of the following highlights attest to:

[insert memorable moments or highlight - academic, sporting, cultural or community here to add your own personal touch]

The end result Ladies and Gentlemen of our coming together, keeping together and working together, in spite of the obstacles that we may have faced along the way... that end result is the Graduating Class of [insert year]. My, how proud we are of the success that they have made with the opportunities that they were offered. Congratulations, we are inordinately proud of you all!

You are ready, willing and more than able to grasp the torch that we bestow upon you- yours is the future and on you the world will come to depend.

May your years ahead continue to be characterized by empathy, compassion, objectivity and a willingness to take risks.

May you always lead by example and work hard and play straight.

May your successes be many and your tribulations be few and far between.

We wish you everything that you so richly deserve in the years ahead - it has been an honor and a privilege watching your progress and success!

Principal graduation speeches - ending off on a high note!

Looking for even more ideas, perhaps for an elementary school graduation speech or even a kindergarten graduation speech - go on take a look!

Return from Principal Graduation Speeches to Words of Wisdom Free Graduation Speeches and Words of Wisdom that Inspire

The Girly Kid

Life of Making the Mundane Extraordinary

My First Guest Speaker Speech | Virtual Graduation

“Thankfully, my Mama and Papa, part of my support system, taught me that BEFORE I SEEK TO BE THE BEST OF THE BESTS, OR THE GREATEST IN THE WORLD, BEING MY BEST SELF IS ALREADY ENOUGH and that’s the most important.”

This might not look like nothing sort of a big deal to others, but I’ll forever treasure this as one of my many firsts and life milestone!! It’s truly an honor to be invited by my alma mater to be their guest speaker, even if I’m not yet there.

Here’s my speech:

Good day to everyone. Mabuhay!

First and foremost, I would like to congratulate every one of you today. Congratulations to our dear school principal, teachers, and staff who all made this event possible. Congratulations parents and guardians who fully supported and provided the needs of our graduates today. Of course, Congratulations to our dear 2021 graduates who, despite the pandemic, are now starting to harvest the fruit of their labors.

I’m Mariel Jade Monteagudo, a JPMS graduate, batch 2008.

When Ma’am Lorena Java, my grade 6 advisor, invited me to be the guest speaker for today’s Virtual Graduation, I hesitated at first and I told her that I’m not yet qualified because I’m still on my way to becoming successful and I’m still far from where I really want to be.

But she believed in me, reminded me of my worth, and trusted me for this role. That’s why I am here in front of you today, thank you Ma’am Java.

That’s the first thing that I want to highlight. A strong support system is very important in life and in success. Your parents, family, loved-ones, friends, classmates, and even your social media followers or subscribers, play an important role in your life. They can make or break you.

13 years ago, I was also in your shoes, listening to the guest speaker during my elementary graduation ceremony, although not virtual, but still the same, I hoped, Sana ako rin ganyan in the future while also wishing that her speech wouldn’t be long and boring.

I didn’t graduate as a batch Valedictorian, I only received the First Honorable Mention award, but seeing my parents very proud of me and of what I got during that very moment, everything felt right and perfect. Thankfully, my Mama and Papa, part of my support system, taught me that before I seek to be the best of the bests or the greatest in the world, being my best self is already enough and that’s the most important.

Our dear graduates, you don’t need to compete with anyone else, but yourself. Just start from trying to be better than who you were and what you did yesterday. In today’s world, where everyone wants to be famous, be that individual who aims for value and purpose.

Being kind hearted, generous, and faithful to God will surely take you to places. In a nutshell, Matthew 6:33 “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”

If you haven’t asked yourself yet, “Ano bang pangarap ko sa buhay?” o “Ano ba talaga ang gusto kong gawin?”. I’d like you to answer that without considering what others might think about you.

Most of the time, we really know our dreams and ambitions deep within our hearts, but we’re afraid to admit it. And it’s not because we’re afraid to fail, but we’re afraid of what others would say if we fail. Mas maraming takot na may masabi ang iba, kaysa sa takot mangarap at biglang madapa. Ikaw, anong takot ba ang handa mong harapin? I believe everyone has something within us that could be our gift to the world.

“Bata pa’ko,hindi ko pa kaya ‘yan.” You know, the only obstacle that’s keeping you from your dreams is the limitation that you set to yourself.

Once you choose to believe that you can, regardless of the situation and challenges, you become unstoppable. Instead of telling yourself that one day you’ll be like that or you’ll get that, choose now as your day one to make something for those goals.

With the theme, Strengthening the Quality of Education Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic, I’d like to tell our dear graduates that you can always take action and be part of the solution. Maximize the use of social media to your advantage . Learning doesn’t stop here at your virtual graduation.

As the world and our way of life continue to change, the sure way we can adapt is our commitment to learning. Hindi mo dapat ipagkait sa sarili mo ang matuto.

This pandemic should serve as our reminder that it’s not about what happens to us, but it’s about what we do and how we react to what happens to us.

Let me share with you a quote from one of my favorite motivational speakers, Mr. Tony Robbins, “It’s not what we get. But who we become, what we contribute…that gives meaning to our lives.”

Batch 2021, there’s no such thing as “too early” or “too young” in knowing your why in life. May you never stop searching for your purpose.

Again, congratulations to our graduates as you reach this milestone of your academic journey. Thank your parents, teachers and friends for giving their time, effort and sacrifices.

Thank you Mama, Papa, my family, and my former teachers for everything. Part of who I am now is because of you. Mabuhay po kayong lahat!

Let’s connect:

IG: mjmonteagudo

IG: TheGirlyKidTravels

Published by mjmonteagudo

✨ I make the mundane extraordinary ✨ View all posts by mjmonteagudo

13 thoughts on “ My First Guest Speaker Speech | Virtual Graduation ”

Hi, I really like your speech. Can I use that as my reference? Very inspiring po kasi talaga. Thank you so much.

Like Liked by 1 person

Hi Jen! Sure thing! Thank you so much for your appreciation!!!! 💖Would love to see & share your speech too, if your link will be available 😊

Hi Maam Mj I like your speech nakaka touch talaga..can i ask permission to used this as my basis of my speech…God Bless po..Thank You po..

Good day po! I like how short your speech is but abundant with knowledge and inspiration. Can I use it as my reference po? Thanks po.

mam thank you for that wonderful speech, can i use it too for reference po? Thank you so much po and God bless.

hi mam I love your speech….can i ask for your permission if i can use it as my reference…..thank you so much mam….

Hi Joan, thanks for you appreciation. Sure, you can use it as a reference. Would love to listen or read your upcoming speech too. 💖

Very inspiring and interesting. May I use this po as my reference for this upcoming graduation ceremony?

I would love to use your speech as my reference for my speech if you allow it maam

Hello, this is a very inspiring and encouraging speech. WOW. can I use it too as my reference to my upcoming speaking engagement?

Hi mam, I really like your speech and very inspiring, can I use it as my reference too, thank you so much, godbless ☺️

Ang galing at ganda po nang speech niyo. Can I use it as reference po? Thank u po. 💗

hi! I can totally relate with your speech. Would it be okay if I use it as a reference? thank you!

Hi! I would love to know you and your thoughts :) Cancel reply

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Graduate students listening to a graduation speech

by Laura Jones

Updated on January 3, 2024

6 tips to write a great graduation speech (with examples)

Being chosen to write a speech for a graduation ceremony is exciting, but also utterly terrifying, for many people. It’s not just your classmates in the audience, it’s parents and faculty too. And with some incredible student graduation speech examples out there (not to mention the perfection that was Steve Jobs’ speech ), there’s a lot to live up to. With that in mind, here are some tips and graduation speech examples to help you create the perfect commencement speech.

Pick a theme
Write an outline
Pen a catchy introduction
Write a thank-you paragraph
Look back and look ahead
End your graduation speech

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1. pick a theme.

The overall goal of graduation speeches is to inspire and move your audience. But there are lots of ways to do this, and picking the right theme is a big part of it. Popular themes are the importance of friendship; perseverance and overcoming adversity; having big dreams and imagination; making a difference. Once you have your theme, it will be easier to choose anecdotes, quotations , and examples to put into your speech.

2. Write an outline

The next step for any commencement speech is to write an outline. Breaking it up into manageable parts not only makes it feel less overwhelming, but it helps to give your speech structure, making it easier for the audience to follow. A good speech will have the following:

A catchy introduction
A look back
A look ahead
A pithy ending

3. Pen a catchy introduction

Begin by thanking everyone for attending and for choosing you to be their speaker. Then, grab your audience’s attention from the very start with a hook. Lots of people choose to begin with a quotation that captures the theme of the whole speech.

Example: I want to begin with a quotation from Nora Ephron: “Your education is a dress rehearsal for a life that is yours to lead.”

Other ways to hook your audience are by telling a short, personal story that your classmates can relate to, or by giving a statistic or question that fits with your theme. And never shy away from humor. A speech by James Glaser at Tufts University contained only questions , one being: “Would you believe that my 5’1” sister met her 5’4” husband in a short story class?” This would be a very funny way to begin a speech about meeting special people.

4. Write a thank-you paragraph

Now your audience is paying attention, it’s time for gratitude. Thank your teachers and other staff at the school who have made a difference and tell an anecdote about someone to personalize this.

Example: “I know I speak on behalf of all of my classmates when I thank the catering staff, who have made sure we fuel our brains with more than just fries and soda during exam times.”

Now’s the time to thank the families in the audience too. You can do a personal shout-out to your mom and dad, but be inclusive and remember that your classmates will have received support from a range of people.

5. Look back and look ahead

The bulk of your speech will be spent talking about your time at the school and about how you see the future unfolding. Now is the time to focus on the theme that you chose, and to include stories about your shared experiences.

If you chose to focus on overcoming adversity , recall a challenge you faced that you know a lot of other people did too. Share how a lesson you learned at school will help you after you leave, and remind everyone that you have learned much more than what was on the syllabus.

Example: As Rita Moreno said, “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.” I know we’ve all changed so much already and we will continue to do so.

6. End your graduation speech

End with some advice and a call to action. Lots of people end with a quotation, and this can be from someone famous or from you.

Example:

George Saunders said, “Do all the other things, the ambitious things—travel, get rich, get famous, innovate, lead, fall in love, make and lose fortunes…but as you do, to the extent that you can, err in the direction of kindness.”
C.S. Lewis told us that “There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind.” So let’s go find them.

Writing a great graduation speech

Beginning with a theme and an outline helps focus your speech, which should make it easier for you to write with clarity and to find the right stories and quotations to use. Telling personal stories that everyone can relate to, sprinkled with humor, is a wonderful way to keep people engaged throughout your speech. And, ending with a bang in the form of an amazing quotation will help inspire your audience and leave them feeling upbeat.

Laura Jones

Laura is a freelance writer and was an ESL teacher for eight years. She was born in the UK and has lived in Australia and Poland, where she writes blogs for Lingoda about everything from grammar to dating English speakers. She’s definitely better at the first one. She loves travelling and that’s the other major topic that she writes on. Laura likes pilates and cycling, but when she’s feeling lazy she can be found curled up watching Netflix. She’s currently learning Polish, and her battle with that mystifying language has given her huge empathy for anyone struggling to learn English. Find out more about her work in her portfolio .

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How to Write a Graduation Speech (Graduation Speech Examples)

Have you been asked to deliver a commencement speech? Or have you worked your butt off to become valedictorian or salutatorian, and now you have to deliver a graduation speech? In this post, we will cover one of the more challenging types of presentation creation: How to Write a Graduation Speech . (By the way, I have also included a few popular graduation speech examples as a guide for you.)

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This post is a continuation of our How to Create a Presentation series. We are going to break this post down into three parts, though. We will show you how to create a commencement speech in this post. Next week, I’ll show you how to write a valedictorian speech and how to deliver a salutatorian speech. Each of these graduation speeches has a slightly different purpose, but all of them need to be inspirational and funny.

How to Write a Commencement Speech

The commencement speech is often the keynote speech of the graduation ceremony. This presentation should be uplifting and entertaining, but this graduation speech should also teach a life lesson to the graduating students. If you do a search on YouTube of the best graduation speeches, many of these speakers will be famous comedians. When a comedian delivers a commencement speech, and the speech is posted on YouTube, it will always get a ton of views. The humor alone will make people want to watch the video. Three of the most popular of these speeches are by Conan O’Brien, Will Ferrell, and Ellen DeGeneres. The interesting thing about the speeches from these famous comedians is that, yes, they are funny, but the inspiration comes from what they learned from their failures.

“There is no such thing as failure. Failure is just life life trying to push you in another direction.” Oprah Winfrey, Harvard University Commencement Speech

A Good Structure When You Write a Commencement Address

Thank the crowd.

https://www.fearlesspresentations.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/The-first-step-to-writing-a-graduation-speech

Start with Something Funny

Be Inspirational

The inspirational part of your commencement speech will come from the theme of the graduation speech . (For Sample Graduation Speech Themes , see the section below.) The easiest way to develop a theme is to look for an inspirational famous quote about success. You can do this by just going to Google and type in “success quotes”. Once you come up with a great quote, you can either paraphrase the quote and make it your own or quote the original speaker.

Tell Stories from Your Own Experience Related to Your Quote (Theme).

This the most important part of how to write a graduation speech. The stories and examples are what the audience will remember. These stories add emotion and inspiration to your graduation speech. They also help you build rapport with the audience. Finally, these stories make your delivery much easier. You don’t have to memorize a lot of material. Instead, just play the video in your head of what happened and describe the incident to the graduates.

For a great example of this, watch the YouTube video on Stanford University’s channel where Steve Jobs gives the commencement speech. I love this speech, because Jobs skips the introduction and the funny stuff and starts his speech with the following. “I’m going to tell you three stories.” It’s simple, and the crowd loves him.

End with an Inspirational Call to Action.

So as you go on to the next stage in your life and you experience failure… because you will experience failure, use that as a stepping stone to your next success. Persevere. Don’t rest on that success. Use it as a stepping stone to your next success. Persevere, and you will experience a series of successes and failures that will allow you to accomplish something great!”

Use this outline to create a simple 20 to 30 minute speech. (The shorter the better… No one gets a diploma until you finish.)

Sample Graduation Speech Themes

If you are having trouble coming up with a theme for your graduation speech, here are a few Sample Commencement Speech Themes. As you read through them, think about which them or quote has been most applicable in your career? Once you choose a graduation speech them, use the outline above to create your speech.

Hard Work Leads to Success

“I find that the harder I work, the more luck I seem to have.” — Coleman Cox

Create Your Own Path.

“It is better to fail in originality than to succeed in imitation.” — Herman Melville

Make Things Happen.

“Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it.” — Henry David Thoreau

Don’t Settle for Average. Strive for Greatness.

“Don’t be afraid to give up the good to go for the great.” –John D. Rockefeller

Don’t Wait for the Perfect Opportunity. Look for a Way to Create Your Own Opportunity.

“Opportunities don’t happen. You create them.” — Chris Grosser/blockquote> The Road Ahead is Hard, But It Leads to Success. “Successful people do what unsuccessful people are not willing to do. Don’t wish it were easier; wish you were better.” — Jim Rohn

Focus on Your Dream.

“The successful warrior is the average man, with laser-like focus.” — Bruce Lee

Learn from Every Mistake to Move Toward Success.

“Success seems to be connected with action. Successful people keep moving. They make mistakes, but they don’t quit.” — Conrad Hilton

When Your Why is Big Enough, Your How Will Appear.

“If you really want to do something, you’ll find a way. If you don’t, you’ll find an excuse.” — Jim Rohn

Happiness is the Key to Success.

“Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.” — Albert Schweitzer

Use the Speech Creator as a Guide to How to Create a Graduation Speech

Once you have chosen a them, and you have a few stories to inspire your audience, use our Online Speech Writer to help you organize your thoughts. (It’s free.)

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16 Best Graduation Speeches That Leave a Lasting Impression

Listen to words of wisdom from the best graduation speeches.

Some of the most impactful and inspiring sentiments are shared during graduation speeches delivered by the leaders we look up to. Graduation speeches from celebrities , entrepreneurs, authors and other influential thinkers are motivational, inspiring, thought-provoking and just might make you reach for the nearest tissue. After four years of hard work, stress, and exhausting self-discovery, lucky graduates are privy to a life-changing speech to top it all off.

Here, we rounded up up 16 of the best graduation speeches of all time, including words of wisdom from Natalie Portman, Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, and more.

1. Steve Jobs: Stanford, 2005

"You've got to find what you love. And that is as true for your work as it is for your lovers. 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."

2. Michelle Obama: Tuskegee University, 2015

"I've found that this journey has been incredibly freeing. Because no matter what happened, I had the piece of mind knowing that all of the chatter, the name-calling, the doubting...all of it was just noise. It did not define me, it didn't change who I was, and most importantly, it couldn't hold me back."

3. Natalie Portman: Harvard, 2015

"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."

4. Amy Poehler: Harvard University, 2011

Forget Fall, BLACKPINK’s Jennie Is Already in Festive Mood

"What I have discovered is this: You can't do it alone … Listen. Say 'yes.' Live in the moment. Make sure you play with people who have your back. Make big choices early and often."

5. Meryl Streep: Barnard College, 2010

"This is your time and it feels normal to you but really there is no normal. There's only change, and resistance to it and then more change."

6. David Foster Wallace: Kenyon College, 2005

"Twenty years after my own graduation, I have come gradually to understand that the liberal arts cliché about teaching you how to think is actually shorthand for a much deeper, more serious idea: learning how to think really means learning how to exercise some control over how and what you think. It means being conscious and aware enough to choose what you pay attention to and to choose how you construct meaning from experience. Because if you cannot exercise this kind of choice in adult life, you will be totally hosed. Think of the old cliché about quote the mind being an excellent servant but a terrible master."

7. Barack Obama: Howard University, 2016

"You have to go through life with more than just passion for change; you need a strategy. I’ll repeat that. I want you to have passion, but you have to have a strategy. Not just awareness, but action. Not just hashtags, but votes."

8. Kerry Washington: George Washington University, 2013

"You and you alone are the only person who can live the life that can write the story that you were meant to tell."

9. Conan O'Brien: Dartmouth College, 2011

"There are few things more liberating in this life than having your worst fear realized. Today I tell you that whether you fear it or not, disappointment will come. The beauty is that through disappointment you can gain clarity, and with clarity comes conviction and true originality … Work hard, be kind, and amazing things will happen."

10. J.K. Rowling: Harvard, 2008

"I stopped pretending to be anything than what I was. My greatest fear had been realized. I had an old typewriter and a big idea. Rock bottom became the solid foundation on which I rebuilt my life."

11. Oprah Winfrey: Harvard University, 2013

"Learn from every mistake because every experience, encounter, and particularly your mistakes are there to teach you and force you into being more who you are. And then figure out what is the next right move. And the key to life is to develop an internal moral, emotional G.P.S. that can tell you which way to go."

12. Joss Whedon: Wesleyan University, 2013

"You have, which is a rare thing, that ability and the responsibility to listen to the dissent in yourself, to at least give it the floor, because it is the key—not only to consciousness–but to real growth. To accept duality is to earn identity. And identity is something that you are constantly earning. It is not just who you are. It is a process that you must be active in. It's not just parroting your parents or the thoughts of your learned teachers. It is now more than ever about understanding yourself so you can become yourself."

13. George Saunders: Syracuse University, 2013

"Do all the other things, the ambitious things … Travel, get rich, get famous, innovate, lead, fall in love, make and lose fortunes, swim naked in wild jungle rivers (after first having it tested for monkey poop)—but as you do, to the extent that you can, err in the direction of kindness."

14. Nora Ephron: Wellesley College, 1996

"Be the heroine of your life, not the victim."

15. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: Wellesley College, 2015

"As you graduate, as you deal with your excitement and your doubts today, I urge you to try and create the world you want to live in. Minister to the world in a way that can change it. Minister radically in a real, active, practical, get your hands dirty way."

16. Admiral William H. McRaven: University of Texas at Austin, 2014

"If you make your bed every morning you will have accomplished the first task of the day. It will give you a small sense of pride, and it will encourage you to do another task and another and another. By the end of the day, that one task completed will have turned into many tasks completed. Making your bed will also reinforce the fact that little things in life matter. If you can't do the little things right, you will never do the big things right."

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Words of Wisdom: 10 Inspirational Graduation Speeches

Tight cropped photo of blue mortarboard and yellow tassel shot on blue graduation gown.

Recently, Education Week and Education Week Teacher asked readers to send us 2012 high school commencement addresses that inspired them. Below you’ll find graduation remarks delivered by a superintendent, a judge, a school board member, a corporate executive, and, of course, students. In addition to the speeches submitted by readers, Education Week Commentary Intern Ellen Wexler scoured the Internet for stirring language from other high school commencement speakers. Read on, and feel free to add your own advice for the class of 2012 in the online comments section below.

I challenge you all to take everything you’ve learned from every experience, conversation, and lesson plan with you into the real world and make the best of it. No, it’s not going to be easy, nor will success knock on your door tomorrow night, but I want for you all to continue to make PROGRESS. Whether it be in school, at work, or just becoming a better person in life, always, always, always continue to make progress.

Gavin Barner Student Greensboro College Middle College, Greensboro, N.C. May 18, 2012 Read the full speech. (PDF)

Always remember, good ideas may come at you very rarely in life. Seize them, grab them, and act on them.

William A. Clark Manheim Central School District Superintendent Manheim Central High School, Manheim, Pa. June 8, 2012 Read the full speech. (PDF)

First, I believe that the world is not as ugly as it sounds. There is undue pressure put upon graduating classes that they need to go forth into society and fix it completely. We are led to think that we’re being sent off into a sick and tired planet Earth, full of chaos and disaster, on the brink of destruction, and we are supposed to roll up our sleeves like an old World War II poster and clean up the mess. But while we do owe a service to the world, I believe in a brighter outlook.

The world is not ugly, or broken. It is just much older than us, and has aged accordingly. ... It is easy to be scared by the horrors of the daily news, but I believe that it is our job to seek the good of it all—the good that will always exist amidst opposition.

Jenna Donahue President, Class of 2012 Avon High School, Avon, Conn. June 15, 2012 Read the full speech.

Complexity, diversity, and pace of change will characterize the business environment of the future, and you will necessarily have to compete in that environment by embracing change. It cannot be assumed for a minute that what was done, or was relied upon yesterday, will be viable tomorrow. ...

Don’t be satisfied with answers that are correct. Instead, train yourself to always look for better ways, better answers. Don’t settle for just being a good and competent employee. Be creative. Be innovative. See the big picture. You will have a huge advantage in the new industrial world. ...

Finally, make sure you learn to communicate well. Communication is perhaps the least-emphasized skill set in most educational programs, but I guarantee you that communication will be the ultimate key to your success.

Tom Brady Chairman, Plastic Technologies Inc.; Chairman, TECHS Governance Board Toledo Early College High School, Toledo, Ohio May 25, 2012 Read the full speech. (PDF)

I’d like to share with you just four recommendations on how to maximize the experience of college and prepare for later success in life:

Be the first one to ask a question in class, and even more importantly, in large lecture halls. You’ll get noticed by your professors ... and, eventually, develop a relationship with your professors.
Exercise every day.
Take the lead to form study groups for one or more of your classes: The annual Harvard freshman study shows that students in study groups are happier and achieve higher grades than those who do all their work alone.
Be a hero to someone. ...

Remember the words of Horace Mann in his last commencement speech in 1859: “Be ashamed to die until you have won some victory for humanity.”

Patrick F. Bassett President, National Association of Independent Schools Fountain Valley School of Colorado, Colorado Springs, Colo. June 26, 2012 Read the full speech. (PDF)

Character is not created with a single act, no matter how brilliant or bold. It is forged in the smallest of struggles, the product of a thousand, thousand strokes. Your tool for carving your character’s template lies, in the words of the poet Robert Lowell, within your “peculiar power to choose.” Ultimately, it is the choice of the fundamental over the frivolous, preferring what is true over what’s accepted, the choosing of what is right over what is easy.

Gary Brochu President, Berlin, Conn., Board of Education Berlin High School, Berlin, Conn. June 17, 2012 Read the full speech.

You’ve learned who you are and what needs to be done to build a better tomorrow. ... And it doesn’t have to be what we’ve done. Soccer players have stopped civil wars. The Innocence Project is ending wrongful imprisonment. Doctors stopped smallpox. Start an art studio, write inspiring folk music, build a soup kitchen. ... [M]ake a billion dollars and give it away. Just do something that makes you happy.

Elliott Witney School Leader, KIPP Academy KIPP Houston High School, Houston June 2, 2012

We were only in 2nd grade when the planes hit the World Trade Center, and we were only teenagers when the economy started to collapse. It’s hard to be so sure about your own future when the world doesn’t seem to know its own future.

But it is the generations that faced the most that turn out to make the biggest difference. We are one of those generations.

Will Eichhorn Co-valedictorian Perry Hall High School, Baltimore June 1, 2012

Is it really that difficult to find in ourselves the motivation and perseverance to keep fighting for a brighter future? All it takes is to believe that it is possible—that it is possible for us to achieve our goal, our dream. Our past is crucial for our future. We must use our past experiences to transform ourselves into an intellectual, responsible man or intellectual, responsible woman. ...

I believe that a person who endures unexpected challenges and hardship, yet emerges with an undefeated smile and a modest character, is a great leader. We must believe that we can be like those leaders and surpass what life gives us. Believing in ourselves is the greatest challenge. But believing in ourselves can also be our greatest accomplishment.

Fatima Salgado Student John Hancock High School, Chicago June 8, 2012

It was easier for me, nearly 50 years ago, than it is for you today, to believe in some basic and unchanging truths, to aspire to a code of conduct that was largely accepted as setting the standard for governing one’s actions, and to hold fast to traditional concepts of integrity and honesty. Fifty years ago, there was something akin to a generally accepted social compact, defining what was expected of people in their personal lives. The lines between right and wrong, between morality and immorality, between acceptable conduct and conduct that was to be condemned, were brighter and clearer and more easily drawn in 1965 than they are in 2012. ... You can accept personal responsibility for your actions and for your life. You do not need to be dependent on others to care for you, to protect you, to provide for you, and most importantly, to make decisions for you. Once you become dependent on others, you will discover that it is the caregiver, not you, who will determine not only how to satisfy your needs but, ultimately, what your needs are. You will sacrifice for perceived security your personal freedom to choose and chart your own course. You must not accept a life of dependency and mediocrity and forgo the opportunity to achieve great things by accepting the challenge of self-reliance.

Victor Ludwig Staunton, Va., Circuit Court Judge; President, Robert E. Lee High School Class of 1965 Robert E. Lee High School, Staunton, Va. June 2, 2012

Deputy Commentary Editor Mary-Ellen Phelps Deily contributed to this report. A version of this article appeared in the July 18, 2012 edition of Education Week

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Graduation Speech
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Speech for Elementary Students
FREE 10+ Graduation Speech Templates in PDF
Free elementary graduation speech
Graduation Speech For Elementary Student Sample

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Guest Speaker Speech for Elementary Graduation Batch 2023
Pre-school Graduation 2009
Keynote Speaker Speech
Kindergarten Graduation Speech
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Graduation Speech Elementary 6 Class of 2023

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Elementary School Graduation Speech
To our young Ladies and Gentlemen seated in front of us tonight listening to our elementary school graduation speech - we are immeasurably proud of each and everyone of you. There were those of you who seemed to have wings and you just soared over the obstacles and challenges that crossed your path. It is a wonderful gift and one that never ...
Sample Valedictory Address for Elementary
SAMPLE VALEDICTORY ADDRESS (ELEMENTARY) (Roselyn U. Doletin) Valedictorian, Class of 2014. 51st Commencement Exercises. Gastav Elementary School. March 27, 2014. It was not so long ago when I dared to dream, and not so long ago, when I dared to take the first essential steps towards the fulfillment of my elementary education.
My Graduation 2020 Speech to my 5th-graders.
Ms. Tan's Graduation Speech, June 23rd, 2020. Good morning everyone. I'm Ms. Tan, and I have been a fifth-grade teacher at our school for the past 4 years. I am so honored to be your Master of Ceremonies for the graduating class of 2020! We teachers and staff here have seen you, the Class of 2020, grow into thoughtful, responsible ...
Middle School or Elementary School graduation speech
This page contains a funny sample speech for Middle School or Elementary School graduations for principles, teachers or other key note speakers. The speech template can be customized for graduations from preschool, 8th Grade, Junior High School, clubs, high school or other graduation events as well.
Graduation Speech [20 Examples + Template]
My sisters weren't allowed to; the girls before me weren't allowed to.". 19. Funny Graduation Speech. This graduation speech by the senior class president is humorous and engaging. The class president reminisces with plenty of jokes in a speech full of fun memories and just the right amount of inspiration.
50 Top Graduation Speech Ideas (& Examples)
50 Top Graduation Speech Ideas (& Examples) Try to search online and you'll find a lot of graduation speech examples. If you're in charge of giving a speech during this important event, you have the choice of whether to compose a long or short graduation speech. As long as you're able to convey your message, the length isn't that relevant.
Student Graduation Speech
A Student Graduation Speech is a special talk given by a student during a graduation ceremony. It's a moment where the student shares their experiences, celebrates achievements, and gives thanks to teachers, family, and friends. The speech often includes memories from school, lessons learned, and hopes for the future.
Elementary School Graduation Speech
Elementary School Graduation Speech - Free download as Word Doc (.doc), PDF File (.pdf), Text File (.txt) or read online for free. This elementary school graduation speech highlights the accomplishments of the graduating class over the past year. It notes how the year went by quickly yet the students met all challenges through determination and resolve, taking steps each day to reach their goals.
Valedictorian Speech For Graduating Elementary Student
Valedictorian Speech for Graduating Elementary Student - Free download as Word Doc (.doc), PDF File (.pdf), Text File (.txt) or read online for free. This valedictorian speech thanks God and those who helped the graduates achieve their dreams, including specific teachers. It reminisces on funny memories and failures shared with classmates. It encourages the graduates to cherish those moments ...
4 Tips To Write The Best Valedictorian Speech (With Samples!)
Step 2: Check for Themes. Once you've talked to others in your graduating class, look for any recurring themes. Write these down, and then think about world and school events that fit in with that theme. Tap into the nostalgia factor as you prepare to say goodbye to your school and classmates. Example Themes:
Sample Speech by School Principal on Graduation Ceremony
You can accomplish anything that you want. Nothing is impossible. We are so proud of what you have evolved to become. You have so much to offer to the world and we are eagerly waiting. Congratulations to you and to your families. I wish each and every one of you the best of luck, success, and happiness.
Writing a Winning Graduation Speech: Outline and Tips
Trying to write a graduation speech that both inspires and keeps people listening can be a little tough. Learn how to write a great one with this outline!
How to Write and Deliver a Memorable Graduation Speech: Tips, Examples
Conclusion. 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.
Principal Graduation Speeches
Principal graduation speeches - ending off on a high note! Looking for even more ideas, perhaps for an elementary school graduation speech or even a kindergarten graduation speech - go on take a look! Return from Principal Graduation Speeches to Words of Wisdom Free Graduation Speeches and Words of Wisdom that Inspire
My First Guest Speaker Speech
Here's my speech: Good day to everyone. Mabuhay! First and foremost, I would like to congratulate every one of you today. Congratulations to our dear school principal, teachers, and staff who all made this event possible. Congratulations parents and guardians who fully supported and provided the needs of our graduates today.
6 tips to write a great graduation speech (with examples)
A look back. A look ahead. A pithy ending. 3. Pen a catchy introduction. Begin by thanking everyone for attending and for choosing you to be their speaker. Then, grab your audience's attention from the very start with a hook. Lots of people choose to begin with a quotation that captures the theme of the whole speech.
Elementary Graduation Speech
Elementary Graduation Speech - Free download as Word Doc (.doc / .docx), PDF File (.pdf), Text File (.txt) or read online for free. 1) The graduation speech thanks the school administrators, teachers, parents, and community leaders for their support and efforts in helping the students succeed. 2) It highlights how the collaborative efforts of the government, teachers, parents, and students ...
Writing a Graduation Speech is Easier Than You Think
For instance, a funny story about a time you got in trouble in school or a struggle as a youth might work. Be Inspirational; The inspirational part of your commencement speech will come from the theme of the graduation speech. (For Sample Graduation Speech Themes, see the section below.)The easiest way to develop a theme is to look for an inspirational famous quote about success.
16 Best Graduation Speeches That Leave a Lasting Impression
16 Best Graduation Speeches That Leave a Lasting ...
Graduation speech from Elementary School principal: editable Sample
School principal 6th grade graduation speech but applicable for all grades... Graduation speech from Elementary School principal: editable Sample. Rated 5 out of 5, based on 3 reviews. 5.0 ...
Graduation Speech Examples That Impart Life Lessons
1 Oprah Winfrey (Stanford, 2008) "In order to be truly happy, you must live along with and you have to stand for something larger than yourself. Because life is a reciprocal exchange. To move forward you have to give back. And to me, that is the greatest lesson of life. To be happy, you have to give something back.".
Words of Wisdom: 10 Inspirational Graduation Speeches
Recently, Education Week and Education Week Teacher asked readers to send us 2012 high school commencement addresses that inspired them. Below you'll find graduation remarks delivered by a ...
elementary graduation speech for this pandemic
elementary graduation speech for this pandemic 2020-2021. Course. BS in Management Accounting. 405 Documents. Students shared 405 documents in this course. University University of Makati. Academic year: 2021/2022. Uploaded by: Anonymous Student. This document has been uploaded by a student, just like you, who decided to remain anonymous.

Sample Valedictory Address for Elementary

SAMPLE VALEDICTORY ADDRESS (ELEMENTARY)

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My Graduation 2020 Speech to my 5th-graders.

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Middle School or Elementary School graduation speech

School graduation speech

Graduation Speech [20 Examples + Template]

Graduation Speech Examples

1. Funny Valedictorian Speech

2. College Graduation Speech Example: Conan O’Brien at Dartmouth College

3. Preschool Graduation Speech

4. David Foster Wallace Kenyon College Commencement Speech

5. Middle School Graduation Speech

6. University of Wisconsin-Madison Commencement Speech 2017

7. Mark Zuckerberg’s Harvard University Commencement Speech

8. Al Roker’s Commencement Speech at Champlain College

9. Steve Jobs’ Commencement Speech at Stanford University

10. Elementary School Graduation Speech

11. Ellen Degeneres Commencement Speech at Tulane University

12. University of Texas at Austin 2014 Commencement Address

13. Matthew McConaughey Commencement Speech

14. Commencement Address by Jim Carrey

15. Stephen Colbert’s Commencement Speech at Wake Forest University

16. Inspiring Graduation Speech

17. Funny Graduation Speech

18. Moving Graduation Speech

19. Funny Graduation Speech

20. Short Graduation Speech

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Graduation Speech Examples

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Student Graduation Speech

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Student Graduation Speech [Text Version]

16+ Student Graduation Speech Examples

2. College Student Graduation Speech

3. Student Graduation Speech Format

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16. Graduation Speech by Students

1. Always Introduce Yourself to the Crowd

2. Share Your Experience in a Story

3. Add an Inspiring Quote

4. Give Everyone Some Good Advice

5. Thank Everyone for Attending the Event

How does a student start a graduation speech?

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