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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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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.)

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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How to Craft a Memorable Graduation or Commencement Speech

Navigating the challenge of delivering a captivating graduation speech can be a daunting task. Did you know, commencement speeches have become an integral part of graduation ceremonies, often delivered by notable figures like Steve Jobs at Stanford University? This blog will guide you through crafting an impactful and memorable address that not only celebrates milestones but inspires graduates as they embark on new journeys.

Ready for the applause? Continue reading!

How to Deliver an Inspiring and Motivating Graduation Speech

To deliver an inspiring and motivating graduation speech, reflect on past experiences, address the challenges and opportunities that await graduates, acknowledge their achievements, express gratitude and appreciation, and use storytelling to leave a lasting impression.

Reflecting on past experiences

Casting your mind back, weaving a rich tapestry of triumphs and trials, emerges as an essential ingredient in crafting a compelling graduation speech. TV mogul Shonda Rhimes emphasized this approach when she advised graduates to be doers rather than dreamers, drawing from her own experiences.

Contemplating past experiences doesn’t just stir nostalgia – it injects vital context and authenticity into your message, resonating with many who have charted the same journey. From acknowledging failures to celebrating successes; each story serves as a shining beacon illuminating the path for new graduates.

After all, every lesson learned contributes significantly to shaping an inspiring oration akin to Horace Mann’s timeless address in 1859 that stressed achieving victories for humanity before one’s death.

It’s about more than just reflecting on memorable high school moments: it’s understanding how these tales underpin today’s accomplished person – you!

Addressing the challenges and opportunities that await graduates

Nailing the section of your speech that shines a light on the challenges and opportunities that await graduates is key in delivering an inspiring and motivating commencement address. Begin by acknowledging how graduating from an educational institution does more than bestow a degree, it equips students with valuable tools for navigating life’s twists and turns.

Discuss how resilience, overcoming adversity, not fearing failure, and taking risks are all fostered through education.

Next, pivot to illuminating future possibilities stemming from their educational achievements. Highlight the exciting potential inherent in each graduate’s unique capabilities and interests.

The world needs their fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to continue progressing forward. Expound on how these attributes can be leveraged for personal growth while also contributing positively towards societal development.

Always opt for a tone of optimism encased in realism – letting your audience know that they have reason to celebrate today but also plenty of hard work awaits them tomorrow.

Acknowledging the achievements of graduates

In crafting your keynote addresses for graduation ceremonies, it’s crucial to spotlight the achievements of your graduates. Validate their hard work and perseverance that led them to this celebratory milestone.

This can range from individual academic achievements to collective strides made by the class as a whole. Steve Jobs’ commencement speech comes to mind; he saluted students’ tenacity, not just scholastic accomplishments.

Pay attention also to the personal growth and character development they’ve undergone during their journey in school or college. Commend them on stepping outside their comfort zone, dealing with life lessons head-on, and overcoming challenges bravely.

As you celebrate these authentic displays of grit and resilience, ensure that you speak with honesty while articulating these accolades—lending significant weight to your words and making your commencement address truly memorable.

Expressing gratitude and appreciation

One key aspect of delivering an inspiring and motivating graduation speech is expressing gratitude and appreciation. Graduates have achieved a significant milestone in their lives, and it’s essential to acknowledge the support and encouragement they’ve received along the way.

By thanking those who believed in them, supported them, and helped them succeed, graduates can create a sense of connection and gratitude within their speech. This recognition not only shows humility but also inspires others to appreciate the people who have played a role in their own achievements.

Expressing genuine appreciation goes beyond just saying thank you – it creates a heartfelt connection with the audience , leaving a lasting impression on everyone involved.

Using storytelling to leave a lasting impression

Crafting a memorable graduation speech involves using storytelling to leave a lasting impression on the graduates. Storytelling has a unique ability to captivate an audience, evoke emotions, and make key messages more relatable.

By sharing personal anecdotes or inspiring stories of individuals who have achieved great things, public speakers can connect with their audience on a deeper level. These narratives not only entertain but also provide valuable life lessons and insights for the graduates as they embark on their future journeys.

Incorporating storytelling into a graduation speech helps create an engaging and impactful experience that will resonate with the listeners long after they leave the ceremony.

Tips for Engaging and Entertaining Graduates

Incorporate humor and address the emotions and feelings of graduates to keep them engaged and entertained throughout your speech.

Incorporating humor

Humor is a powerful tool in engaging and entertaining an audience , especially during graduation and commencement speeches. Incorporating wit and humor into your speech not only brings life to traditional celebrations but also appeals to young attendees who appreciate a lighthearted approach.

Research has shown that the use of humor in college classrooms has numerous benefits for students, such as enhancing their learning experience and fostering a positive classroom atmosphere. When delivering your speech, striking the right balance between humor, self-awareness, advice, and empowerment is crucial for leaving a memorable impact on the graduates.

Just like Will Ferrell’s USC commencement speech aimed to both congratulate and inspire the graduates, infusing humor into your address can help you connect with the audience on a deeper level while still conveying important messages.

So why not have some fun with your graduation speech? Break through the serious barriers by incorporating funny anecdotes or witty one-liners that will keep everyone entertained throughout the ceremony.

Addressing the emotions and feelings of graduates

One essential aspect of delivering a memorable graduation speech is addressing the emotions and feelings of graduates. As they stand on the cusp of a new chapter in their lives, it’s crucial to recognize the mixture of excitement, uncertainty, and nostalgia that may be coursing through them.

By acknowledging these emotions and speaking directly to them, you can establish an immediate connection with your audience. Sharing personal experiences that resonate with their own struggles and triumphs can further deepen this emotional bond.

Whether it’s emphasizing the importance of embracing change or offering words of encouragement for navigating the challenges ahead, tapping into their emotions will help create a lasting impact on their hearts and minds.

Techniques for Creating a Memorable and Impactful Graduation Speech

Create a memorable and impactful graduation speech by inspiring and motivating graduates, leaving a lasting impression, and engaging and entertaining them throughout the address.

Inspiring and motivating graduates

Crafting a memorable and impactful graduation speech is all about inspiring and motivating graduates to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. By reflecting on past experiences, addressing the challenges graduates may face, and acknowledging their achievements, you can create a speech that resonates with your audience.

Incorporate storytelling to leave a lasting impression and connect with graduates on a deeper level. Research shows that sharing important life lessons in commencement speeches is an effective way to inspire and motivate individuals as they embark on their next chapter.

Look for inspirational quotes about success to add weight to your message. For inspiration, consider analyzing influential commencement speeches from the 21st century like Steve Jobs’ powerful address at Stanford .

Leaving a lasting impression

Crafting a graduation speech that leaves a lasting impression is crucial for any public speaker. The goal is to inspire and motivate graduates as they embark on their next chapter. Incorporating impactful storytelling techniques can captivate the audience and make your message resonate deeply.

By acknowledging the achievements of the graduates, addressing their challenges and opportunities, expressing gratitude, and using humor strategically, you can create a memorable experience for everyone present.

Remember, a well-delivered speech has the power to uplift spirits, ignite aspirations, and celebrate this significant milestone in life.

Engaging and entertaining graduates

To truly engage and entertain graduates during a commencement speech, it’s important to incorporate elements that connect with their emotions and feelings. Adding humor is one way to break the ice and create a lighthearted atmosphere.

Sharing personal stories can also help establish a connection with the audience, making the speech relatable and memorable. Additionally, using inspirational themes or incorporating local references can further engage graduates by making the speech relevant to their experiences.

By combining humor, emotion, storytelling, and relatability in your graduation speech, you can captivate and entertain your audience while leaving them inspired for their future endeavors.

In conclusion, graduation and commencement speeches play a crucial role in inspiring and motivating graduates as they embark on their next journey. By reflecting on past experiences, addressing challenges and opportunities, acknowledging achievements, expressing gratitude, using storytelling techniques, incorporating humor, and engaging emotions, speakers can create memorable and impactful speeches that leave a lasting impression.

These speeches serve as a foundation for personal growth, character building, defining success, and celebrating accomplishments. Remember to step outside your comfort zone when delivering these speeches and always strive to inspire with authenticity and honesty.

Graduation ceremonies are not just about receiving diplomas; they are about providing valuable life lessons that resonate with students at any stage of their education. So go out there and deliver an unforgettable speech filled with inspiration, motivation, laughter – making it the highlight of every graduation ceremony!

1. What is the purpose of a graduation or commencement speech?

The purpose of a graduation or commencement speech is to inspire and motivate graduating students as they transition into the next phase of their lives. It aims to provide guidance, advice, and encouragement for success in both personal and professional endeavors.

2. Who typically delivers a graduation or commencement speech?

Graduation or commencement speeches are often delivered by notable individuals such as successful entrepreneurs, influential leaders, renowned academics, industry experts, celebrities, or even fellow graduates who have achieved significant accomplishments.

3. How long should a graduation or commencement speech be?

The duration of a graduation or commencement speech can vary depending on the event’s schedule and the speaker’s allotted time. Generally, these speeches range from 10 to 20 minutes in length but can extend up to 30 minutes on certain occasions.

4. Can I find examples of famous graduation or commencement speeches online?

Yes! Many famous graduation or commencement speeches are available online through platforms like YouTube and various websites dedicated to inspirational content. These speeches offer valuable insights that can serve as inspiration for crafting your own memorable address.

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How to Write a High School Graduation Speech (+ Examples)

Amanda Green was born in a small town in the west of Scotland, where everyone knows everyone. I joined the Toastmasters 15 years ago, and I served in nearly every office in the club since then. I love helping others gain confidence and skills they can apply in every day life.

I was in several clubs in high school, I was the valedictorian, and I happened to be the youngest in our graduating class. Needless to say, I had to write and give more than one speech at our graduation.

Being asked to give a graduation speech in high school is a tremendous honor and responsibility. It takes a lot of preparation, from planning to writing and editing your speech.

My guide should show you how to write a graduation speech for high school, especially with the examples I’ve included. Follow the template and tips, and you’re sure to receive a standing ovation from your audience.

How Long Is a High School Graduation Speech?

The best high school graduation speeches aren’t long and boring since the ceremonies already take hours. Aim for an address that doesn’t exceed 10 minutes. Keep your audience’s attention and save some for other people’s speeches.

Your graduation speech should only be around 500 to 600 words. You have to read it slowly and articulate the words clearly. One way to keep it shorter is by removing cliches and other unnecessary content.

High School Graduation Speech Template

Essays and speeches usually have three parts: introduction, body, and conclusion. Here is a structure you can follow for a memorable high school graduation speech.

Introduction

Thank people for attending. Acknowledge the presence of your teachers, parents, and fellow graduates.
Introduce yourself. Not everyone in the room knows you, even if you’re the class valedictorian.
Catch the audience’s attention by sharing a motivational quote or saying. Your personal narratives and advice will later be based on this saying.
Recall memorable high school experiences. Anything is worth sharing, whether it’s a simple day in class or your debate competition.
Encourage classmates not to forget these beautiful memories.
Share helpful advice for this new chapter of their lives.
Restate the quote or saying you mentioned in the introduction.
End with a call to action that will encourage the graduates to make a difference.
Thank the audience for hearing you out.

How to Write a Graduation Speech for High School

Public speaking takes a lot of preparation. Here are some tips you should follow when writing and delivering a graduation speech for high school.

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Pick a Theme

Inspirational high school graduation speeches leave a mark on people. If you want to create one, try building it around a central message.

Think about everything you experienced in high school and look for patterns. Was high school about learning from mistakes? Or was it about achieving big dreams with small steps? Consider not only what is essential to you but also what is important for your fellow graduates.

Once you have picked a theme, selecting a quote, including advice, and recalling high school memories will be much easier. Here are some popular themes you can consider using for yours, but make sure to choose ones that are relevant to you and/or your class.

Embracing failure
Big things take time
Achieving big dreams with small steps
Facing change with grace
Overcoming adversity
Becoming a lifelong learner
Being more intentional and responsible for your future

Begin With Gratitude and a Self-Introduction

Once you step on stage, you must start with a few formalities. Know the name of the previous speakers and acknowledge their excellent speeches. Then, thank everyone in attendance, including the teachers, parents, and fellow students.

Say it’s a privilege to speak before the audience on this special day. This is also the best time to introduce yourself.

Don’t assume that everyone in the room knows who you are. State your name and why you were tasked to create the speech. Below is an example.

“Thank you, Mr. Jones, for the wonderful speech. And thank you to the parents, teachers, staff, and fellow graduates in this room who have made the past four years unforgettable. It’s a pleasure to stand in front of everyone and represent the class of 2022 at this address. I am [name], your class valedictorian.”

Make It About Everybody But You

Your graduation speech is not a mini-biography of your accomplishments. Only sprinkle a few personal anecdotes, then include what the four years of high school have been like for the other students. Below is an example.

“Four years ago, we were freshmen walking through the doors of [school name]. While some of us want to be doctors, artists, engineers, and singers in the future, we all had one goal in mind during that time: to leave a mark on the school in the next four years.”

Recall High School Memories

Tap the ceremony’s nostalgia by recalling important events from the past four years. You can include prom, school fairs, and even mundane scenarios. Include hardships, such as the sudden shift to online classes during the pandemic.

If you are a valedictorian , you should know which memories everyone treasures. Try interviewing some of your peers about their best high school memories. Below is an example.

“Every batch of graduates from [school] has a common core memory. For us, it was probably prom 2022. Instead of getting our beauty sleep the night before the dance, everyone stayed in school until 8 PM because of the last-minute changes. While that experience was full of pressure and chaos, we look back on that memory remembering teamwork and dedication.”

Share Advice

Your advice is the most crucial part of the speech. It serves as a call to action the students will follow in the future.

Make sure to keep it positive and remind everyone that anything is possible. You can also advise them to advocate for others and treat everyone equally.

Here’s an example showing what I mean.

“The future is uncertain, and the only thing we can do is be optimistic about it. We learned to stay determined in the past four years, so we can do it again throughout college or our careers.”

Incorporate Your Personality

Just because you’re speaking for the rest of the class and following an outline doesn’t mean your speech should be boring. You can still infuse your personality through humor, anecdotes , and life experiences.

You can also open your address with something funny, as long as it’s appropriate and timely. If you’re a valedictorian, self-deprecating humor will be a hit. Try adding quirky memories from classes that will immerse your audience.

Leave Your Audience Inspired

You are not at the graduation to merely receive your diploma. As a speaker, you need to leave your audience inspired on the next chapter of their lives. Encourage them to find their purpose and make a difference in the world.

Some speakers end their speeches with another quote. Here is the one I used in my high school speech, but there are tons to be found on the internet you can use that might better suit your needs.

“All our dreams can come true… if we have the courage to pursue them.” — Walt Disney

Finally, thank everyone for taking the time to listen to your speech. Express gratitude toward your classmates for the memories over the last four years.

Proofread Your Work

Read your writing out loud and fix parts that don’t sound pleasing. Doing so will make your writing more powerful and precise. Look out for flowery language, excessive adjectives, and lengthy sentences.

When editing, make sure to remove cliches from your writing. These are words and phrases that have been overused in speech and writing. These include phrases like “all walks of life,” “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” and “two wrongs don’t make a right.”

Try sharing more personal anecdotes and collective memories than tired pieces of advice. This will make the speech more interesting and customized for the audience. Find out what your fellow high school graduates and the rest of the audience want to hear and know, then write it concisely and effectively.

Once you’re done fixing clarity issues, it’s time to fix structural errors. Perform several edits on your speech to remove all spelling and grammar mistakes.

Practice Your High School Graduation Speech

There’s no exact formula for the perfect valedictorian or commencement speech. But if you follow my tips and examples and speak from the heart, your fellow graduates will live by your words as they go about their futures.

Remember to keep your engaging speech positive and inspiring. Recall memories from high school, then make them look forward to creating new ones in their careers or college.

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Speech Writing

Graduation Speech

Crafting the Perfect Graduation Speech: A Guide with Examples

10 min read

What is a Graduation Speech?

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

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

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

Elements of Graduation Speech

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

Here are the crucial elements you should consider:

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

How to Write a Graduation Speech?

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

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

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

Begin with a Memorable Opening

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

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

Express Gratitude

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

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

Reflect on Meaningful Moments

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

Use these anecdotes to connect with your audience emotionally.

Offer Words of Inspiration

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

Use stories or quotes to illustrate your points.

Share Practical Advice

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

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

Emphasize Unity and Shared Experiences

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

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

Discuss Hopes and Dreams

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

End with an Inspiring Conclusion

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

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

Graduation Speeches From Notable Figures

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

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

Taylor Swift Graduation Speech

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

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

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

Watch complete graduation speech here:

Rory Gilmore Graduation Speech

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

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

Watch her graduation speech here:

Ree Drummond - Oklahoma State University

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

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

Listen to the complete speech in this video:

Steve Jobs - 2005

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

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

Check out his complete speech in this video:

Graduation Speech Examples for Students

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

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

Graduation Speech for Kindergarten - Example

Short Graduation Speech

Graduation Speech for Kids

Graduation Speech For Primary 6

8th Grade Graduation Speech

High School Graduation Speech

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

Graduation Speech by Students - Example

Graduation Speech for Parents - Example

Graduation Speech by Teacher - Example

Graduation Speech by Principal- Example

Graduation Speech Thanking Teachers

Graduation Speech Ideas - 2023

Here are some interesting and fun graduation speech ideas.

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

Graduation Speech Writing Tips

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

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

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

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

At MyPerfectWords.com , one of the best essay writing service for college , we help new graduates make their day memorable by delivering quality speeches.

Buy speech from us and get ready to shine.

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Graduation Speech Ideas: How to Inspire Your Class

Did you know that the shortest recorded graduation speech in history was a mere 19 words long? Yes, you heard that right! While brevity can sometimes be a virtue, when it comes to inspiring your fellow classmates and leaving a lasting impression, well-crafted graduation speeches can be a powerful tool. As you stand before your graduating class, you have the opportunity to ignite a spark of motivation, instill a sense of purpose, and propel your peers toward their future endeavors.

Graduation Speech Ideas: Short Summary

In this article, we will explore a variety of graduation speech topics, along with practical tips and easy steps to help you craft an impressive speech. With these tools in hand, you'll have the power to captivate your class and leave an indelible mark on their hearts and minds. Get ready to create a commencement address that will resonate for years to come.

Graduation Speeches: Exploring the Purpose

Graduation speeches, with their grand stage and eager audience, serve a purpose that extends far beyond mere formality. They are a culmination of years of hard work, growth, and shared experiences. These speeches are a golden opportunity to reflect on the collective journey, celebrate achievements, and inspire the graduating class as they step into the uncharted territory of the future.

According to our paper writing service experts, one of the key elements in crafting a memorable graduation speech is selecting a theme that resonates with the graduating class. Graduation speech themes can range from resilience and perseverance to embracing change and embracing diversity. By choosing a theme that reflects the unique experiences and aspirations of the class, the speaker can create a unifying thread that connects with the hearts and minds of the audience. These themes serve as guiding principles, offering nuggets of wisdom and inspiring anecdotes that reinforce the central message of the speech.

The purpose of a graduation speech is multifaceted. It is a beacon of hope, reminding graduates of their potential and the endless possibilities that await them. It is a heartfelt tribute acknowledging the contributions of teachers, mentors, and loved ones who have played an integral role in their educational voyage. Moreover, a graduation speech is a platform for wisdom and guidance, a chance to impart invaluable life lessons and ignite a fire of motivation within each listener. It is a powerful tool that has the ability to instill confidence, inspire action, and encourage graduates to embark on their unique paths with passion and purpose.

How to Start a Graduation Speech: Essential Preparation Tips

Stepping up to the podium to deliver a graduation speech can be both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. As the spotlight shines upon you, it's crucial to capture the attention and hearts of your fellow graduates, faculty, and parents right from the start. The key to a remarkable beginning lies in careful preparation. By employing essential tips for starting a graduation speech, you can set the stage for an impactful and memorable address. From gathering relevant details to brainstorming graduation speech ideas and crafting a well-structured outline, these preparation tips will empower you to confidently begin your graduation speech, leaving a lasting impression on your audience.

Gather Relevant Details

As per our custom essay writing service , the first step in preparing to start a graduation speech is to gather relevant details about the graduating class, the school, and the overall graduation ceremony.

Determine the Speaking Time : Find out the allocated time for the graduation speech topics. Knowing the time limit will help you structure your speech accordingly, ensuring that you deliver a concise and engaging message within the given timeframe.
Identify the Audience : Consider who will be in attendance at the graduation ceremony. Will it primarily consist of fellow graduates, parents, faculty, or a mix of all? Understanding the demographics of the audience can help you tailor your speech to their interests, experiences, and expectations.
Know the Introducer : Find out who will introduce you before your speech. This allows you to establish a connection with the person responsible for setting the stage and can provide an opportunity to coordinate and align the introduction with the theme or key points of your speech.
Determine Other Speakers : Inquire whether you are the only speaker or if there will be other individuals delivering speeches. This information helps you gauge the overall time allotted for speeches, ensures you don't overlap content, and allows you to adjust your speech accordingly to offer a unique perspective.
Check for Microphone Availability : Verify if a microphone will be available during your speech. Understanding the audio setup will assist you in projecting your voice effectively and ensuring your words reach the entire audience.
Consider the Use of Speech Notes : Determine whether you can use speech notes or if memorization is expected. Some graduation ceremonies allow speakers to refer to notes, while others encourage a more natural and memorized delivery. Knowing the expectations allows you to plan your preparation and delivery approach accordingly.

Brainstorm Ideas

By delving into the following diverse aspects of college life, your brainstorming session will yield a rich tapestry of memories, anecdotes, and themes that can be incorporated into your graduation speech, infusing it with authenticity, nostalgia, and the spirit of previous graduation speech examples.

Food and Dining : Delve into the culinary adventures of your college days, from the unique offerings at dining halls to the beloved local restaurants that became student favorites.
Campus Hangouts : Explore the cherished spots on campus where students congregated, shared laughter, and forged lasting friendships.
Social Events : Recall the vibrant social scene that shaped your college experience, from parties and festivals to club activities and campus-wide celebrations.
Notable Classes : Highlight the classes or academic experiences that left a lasting impact, whether due to exceptional professors, intriguing subject matter, or memorable assignments. Personalize your speech by weaving in anecdotes from your own autobiography example , showcasing the transformative power of education.
Significant Memories : Reflect on the special moments that stand out in your college journey, be it late-night study sessions, impromptu adventures, or milestone achievements.
Landmarks : Take note of the iconic landmarks on campus that became synonymous with your college years, contributing to a sense of pride and belonging.
Current Events : Consider any noteworthy events or happenings that unfolded during your time at college, shaping the collective experience of your class.
Shared College Experiences : Embrace the shared experiences that defined your campus community, such as the ritual of purchasing scantrons, the melodic chimes of the Old Main bells, or navigating the virtual realm of Blackboard.

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Create a Graduation Speech Outline

By following this outline, you'll learn how to write a speech about yourself that leaves a lasting impact on the graduating class and the audience. Infuse your speech with your personality, emotions, and unique perspective, creating an authentic and heartfelt reflection of your journey and the aspirations of the graduating class.

I. Introduction

A. Welcome the audience: Begin your speech by warmly welcoming the graduating class, faculty members, parents, and esteemed guests. Set a positive and inclusive tone from the start.

B. Introduce the theme: Clearly state the overarching theme or message that will be the foundation of your speech. This will provide a sense of direction and purpose for your discourse.

C. Engage with a captivating opening: Start with a relevant and engaging story, joke, or anecdote that connects to the theme and captures the attention of your audience. This will help create an immediate connection and pique their interest.

II. Personal Reflections and Shared Experiences

A. Share personal anecdotes: Draw from your own experiences as a student, highlighting significant moments, challenges, or accomplishments that relate to the theme. This personal touch will make your speech relatable and genuine.

B. Incorporate shared experiences: Discuss shared experiences and milestones that the graduating class has encountered throughout their academic journey. These collective memories will foster a sense of unity and connection among the audience.

C. Add originality: Inject original and unique perspectives into your speech. Offer fresh insights, perspectives, or ideas that will captivate and resonate with the graduating class.

III. Key Messages and Life Lessons

A. Highlight key messages: Identify the key messages or life lessons you wish to impart to the graduating class. These can include resilience, perseverance, embracing change, or pursuing a passion.

B. Support with stories and examples: Illustrate your key messages with relatable stories, examples, or quotes. Make them vivid and impactful, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

C. Inspire and motivate: Use your speech to inspire and motivate the graduating class to embrace the future with confidence, pursue their dreams, and make a positive impact in the world.

IV. Conclusion

A. Express gratitude: Thank the audience, including the graduating class, faculty, parents, and any other individuals who have supported the students' academic journey. Show appreciation for the opportunity to address them.

B. Summarize your discourse: End your speech with a concise, one-line summary of your main message or theme. This will serve as a memorable takeaway for the audience.

C. Conclude on an inspiring note: Leave the audience with a final inspiring thought, challenge, or call to action, encouraging the graduating class to make a difference in their lives and the world.

Pick a Topic

When picking graduation speech themes, it is crucial to select one that complements your personality, experience, and attitude. Your chosen theme should align with who you are as a person and reflect your journey throughout your academic years. Ensure that the topic resonates with your values and allows you to convey your message authentically. This alignment will make it easier for you to connect with the audience and deliver a speech that is genuine and impactful.

Extra Tips for Preparation

When preparing topics for a graduation speech, consider incorporating graduation speech ideas that align with your personality and experiences. Practice vocal delivery and body language to ensure effective communication during your speech. Vary your tone and pace, and use gestures and facial expressions as punctuation marks examples to enhance your message. By injecting humor and personal touches, such as relatable anecdotes and witty observations, you can engage and entertain the audience. Remember to strike a balance, ensuring the humor complements the main message without overshadowing it.

To further captivate your listeners, engage the audience with interactive activities during your speech. Break away from the traditional format by asking thought-provoking questions, conducting a quick poll, or inviting volunteers to share their reflections on the theme. This interactive approach will foster a deeper connection and keep the audience actively involved in your discourse.

Finally, craft a memorable closing to leave a lasting impact on your listeners. Consider ending your graduation speech with a powerful, thought-provoking question, a compelling call to action, or an inspiring story. This will reinforce your main message and motivate the graduating class to embrace their future with confidence and determination. By incorporating these strategies, your graduation speech will be an unforgettable experience for both you and your audience.

🎏 Inspirational High School Graduation Speech Themes

Embracing Change and Embracing New Opportunities: Navigating the transitions and challenges that come with moving on from high school.
From Dreams to Reality: Encouraging graduates to pursue their passions and turn their dreams into actionable goals.
The Power of Resilience: Highlighting the importance of bouncing back from setbacks and staying strong in the face of adversity.
Unleashing the Potential Within: Inspiring graduates to recognize their unique abilities and unleash their full potential.
Embracing Diversity: Celebrating the value of diverse perspectives, cultures, and backgrounds in fostering understanding and unity.
Making a Difference: Encouraging graduates to use their skills, knowledge, and influence to make a positive impact in their communities.
Embracing Lifelong Learning: Highlighting the importance of continuous learning and personal growth beyond the classroom.
Breaking Barriers: Encouraging graduates to challenge societal norms and push beyond their comfort zones to achieve greatness.
Cultivating Compassion: Inspiring graduates to foster empathy and kindness in their interactions with others.
The Power of Teamwork: Highlighting the value of collaboration and cooperation in achieving shared goals and making a difference.
Embracing Innovation: Encouraging graduates to embrace new technologies and creative thinking to drive positive change.
The Journey of Self-Discovery: Encouraging graduates to embark on a journey of self-discovery to find their true passions and purpose.
Embracing Sustainability: Encouraging graduates to adopt sustainable practices and become responsible stewards of the environment.
Embracing Mindfulness: Highlighting the importance of living in the present moment and cultivating a sense of mindfulness.
The Impact of Mentorship: Acknowledging the influential role of mentors in shaping our lives and inspiring graduates to become mentors themselves.
Embracing Failure as Growth: Encouraging graduates to view failure as an opportunity for growth and learning.
Building Strong Relationships: Highlighting the importance of nurturing meaningful connections and relationships throughout life.
Embracing Global Citizenship: Encouraging graduates to be responsible global citizens and embrace diversity on a global scale.
Inspiring Leadership: Empowering graduates to become compassionate and visionary leaders who inspire positive change.
Embracing Gratitude: Encouraging graduates to cultivate a sense of gratitude for the people and experiences that have shaped their lives.

🎉 Funny Graduation Speech Ideas

The Art of Procrastination: How I Managed to Graduate Despite My Last-Minute Habits
Embracing the Power of Naps: A Guide to Surviving College and Still Getting Your Diploma
The Real MVPs: A Shout-out to Cafeteria Food and Late-Night Snacks
The Unforgettable Fashion Faux Pas: Lessons Learned from Questionable Outfit Choices
Surviving Group Projects: A Comedy of Errors and Unexpected Friendships
The Great Coffee Chronicles: How Caffeine Became the Key to My Graduation Success
Mastering the Art of Balancing Netflix and Assignments: A Graduation Story
The Perils of Autocorrect: Hilarious Texting Mishaps During Exam Season
Dorm Life Diaries: Tales of Roommate Adventures and Misadventures
The Legendary Study Breaks: From Netflix Binges to Epic Dance Parties
The Great Parking Wars: A Comedy of Finding the Perfect Parking Spot on Campus
The Chronicles of Punny Professors: Hilarious Wordplay in the Classroom
The Daring Tales of Sneaking Food into Lecture Halls: An Epic Saga
From Class Clowns to Class Favorites: Celebrating the Humorous Side of High School
The Ultimate Guide to Successfully Procrastinating Procrastination: A Comedy of Irony
The Awkward Dance of Public Speaking: Overcoming Stage Fright with Laughter
The Unforgettable Tales of Failed Experiments: Science Gone Hilariously Wrong
The Art of Surviving PowerPoint Presentations: A Humorous Guide to Slide-Deck Disasters
Laughing Through the Late-Night Study Sessions: Comedy as a Coping Mechanism
Embracing Awkward Graduation Photos: Celebrating Unforgettable Memories

Graduation Speech Example

In this section, we have a fantastic example that perfectly showcases what makes a speech outstanding. We understand the importance of providing students with a clear vision of a remarkable speech, and in the following words, you'll find inspiration on how to engage your audience, evoke emotions, and create a lasting impression.

In conclusion, this article has equipped you with various graduation speech ideas and resources to create an exceptional graduation speech. From exploring the purpose and themes to offering preparation tips and examples, we've provided the tools you need to captivate and inspire your audience. Furthermore, if you're seeking metaphors and analogies examples to add depth and creativity to your speech, we have plenty of suggestions for you to consider. Congratulations, and may your speech inspire and motivate your fellow graduates as they embark on their future endeavors.

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How Long Should a Graduation Speech Be?

Should i memorize my graduation speech or use notes, related articles.

Special Occasion Speech: Best Ideas for Any Event

Crafting Your Commencement Speech Outline

Introduction:.

A well-structured commencement speech can inspire, motivate, and leave a lasting impression on your audience. Creating an outline for your speech can help ensure that your message is clear, focused, and effectively communicated. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of crafting a commencement speech outline that will serve as the foundation for a memorable and impactful address.

Step 1: Define your central theme or message

Begin by identifying the central theme or message you want to convey in your speech. This theme should be something that resonates with your fellow graduates and reflects the essence of your address. Examples of themes include perseverance, gratitude, embracing change, or following one's passion.

Step 2: Develop your introduction

Your introduction should grab your audience's attention and set the tone for your speech. Consider starting with a personal anecdote, a surprising fact, or a thought-provoking question. Be sure to briefly introduce your central theme and provide an overview of what your speech will cover.

Step 3: Share personal stories and experiences

Personal stories and experiences can make your speech more relatable and engaging. Use anecdotes that illustrate your central theme and demonstrate the lessons you've learned. Be sure to connect these stories to the broader audience by highlighting the universal emotions and experiences they evoke.

Step 4: Incorporate supporting points

Develop supporting points that reinforce your central theme and provide additional insights. These points may include quotes from notable figures, relevant statistics, or lessons learned from your own experiences. Be sure to explain how each supporting point relates to your central theme.

Step 5: Address challenges and obstacles

Acknowledge the challenges and obstacles you and your fellow graduates have faced during your academic journey. Discuss how these experiences have shaped you and contributed to your growth. Emphasize the importance of resilience and adaptability in overcoming adversity.

Step 6: Express gratitude

Take a moment to express gratitude to the people who have supported and guided you throughout your academic journey. This may include family members, friends, teachers, and mentors. Acknowledging their contributions demonstrates humility and appreciation.

Step 7: Offer inspiration and encouragement

Provide your audience with inspiration and encouragement for the next chapter of their lives. Offer insights, advice, or words of wisdom that will motivate and empower them as they embark on their future endeavors.

Step 8: Conclude your speech

Wrap up your speech by summarizing your main points and reiterating your central theme. End on a high note, leaving your audience with a memorable takeaway or call to action that will stay with them long after the ceremony has ended.

Conclusion:

Creating a commencement speech outline is an essential step in crafting a memorable and impactful address. By following this step-by-step guide, you can develop a well-structured outline that will serve as the foundation for your speech. Whether you choose to write your speech yourself or use the Graduation Speech Co.'s AI-driven service, remember the importance of a strong outline and use it to create a truly inspiring and unforgettable address.

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Are you struggling to craft a compelling graduation speech? Let us help you out!

Our AI-powered service can create a speech that will leave a lasting impression on your audience. Buy credits today and get started!

Graduation Speech Template

Graduating speeches usually are given by a graduating student, faculty member, or outside speaker. The purpose is to celebrate the graduates’ accomplishments, offer advice, and look to the future. Most speakers follow a standard graduation speech template.

Graduation speeches vary, but they all have the same message hidden beneath the packaging. Most rely on a graduation speech template . Whether the speech was given by Michelle Obama , Steve Jobs , or a fellow student, the speech has the three standard speech parts and sentiment to encourage the graduates.

On commencement day, you might hear different types of speeches that serve a variety of purposes. Whether you are looking for graduation speech ideas or are just interested in learning more about what they might encompass, we have help for you.

Table of Contents

What Is A Graduation Speech?

A graduation or commencement speech is given on someone’s graduation day or at a graduation celebration. Are you wondering who are the people who most frequently speak at graduation ceremonies?

Who Usually Gives Speeches At High School Graduations and How Are They Different?

Faculty Member: Sometimes, a school administrator or faculty member will give a commencement speech. This person may welcome the guests as well as introduce the next speaker.
Salutatorian: The person who graduates second in a graduating class will usually speak by giving the salutatorian speech as they “give the salutation.” The salutatorian typically speaks on behalf of the graduating class welcoming friends and family and expressing gratitude to everyone who has helped get the graduating class to where they are today.
Valedictorian: In the valedictorian speech, the highest-rank student in the class will most often address their fellow students. They talk about the school years and what lies ahead in the future or offer an inspirational speech. This could be done with moving stories, reminiscing, or other ways.
Keynote Speaker: Sometimes, the valedictorian serves as the main speaker; other times, someone will invite a special speaker to address the graduating class. A keynote speaker usually gives an inspiring or motivational speech. Throughout the speech, the person might talk about life lessons, use motivational quotes, and even draw from their own experiences to bring the story to life.

What Is A Good Graduation Speech Template?

When speech writing, it is essential to remember that it is always important to have three specific parts to your graduation speech outline: an introduction, the body of the speech, and a conclusion. While there are some conventions to follow regarding that structure, the actual content can be flexible.

Introduction

As with any good speech, the introduction is critical. This is your opportunity to welcome the attendees, introduce yourself, and determine your hook to get the audience’s attention.

The body is the meat and potatoes of your speech. Once you determine your primary focus, you can start to flesh things out. Speech topics vary depending on the individual speaking, the tone one is looking for, and the intent of the speech.

As with any public speaking, you will want to wrap things up. This is your opportunity to either reiterate what you have said, pull your points together into one main idea, share a quote, or end the speech somehow.

What Do You Say In A Graduation Speech?

Achievement: An introduction speech may set the stage for other speakers. Discussing the academic achievements of a salutatorian or valedictorian as part of their introduction is one way to introduce the speakers.
Call to Action: One fun tactic is to give a speech rousing your fellow graduates to feel compelled to act positively.
Discuss Work Ethic: Acknowledging that hard work was necessary to earn a degree is often done in a high school or college graduation speech.
Inspiration or Motivation: Adding inspirational quotes or having a motivational keynote speaker is another option for a graduation speech. Knowing that the graduating class is about to forge their way into the world makes this an appropriate topic.
Memories: Remembering that this is not “all about you,” a graduation speaker might reminisce about the school experience this graduating class has had together. More conducive to a high school speech where everyone is more likely to have had common experiences, it could also bring up state, country, or world events that have shaped the individuals.

Graduation speech template - inpsor, motivate, and call grads to action

What Do I Say To Start A Graduation Speech?

The introduction of a speech should include a greeting. One might say, “Friends, family members, esteemed faculty, and fellow graduates, welcome.”

If the speaker is not a graduate, they might start by welcoming people instead. “It is my distinct pleasure to invite all our guests here to the 2023 (school) commencement ceremony.”

What Can You Do To Improve Your Graduation Speech?

When tasked with giving a speech, there are things to do to help set yourself up for success.

Ask Questions: Once you are asked to speak at a commencement ceremony, it is appropriate to find out the order of speakers, what is expected for the content of each speaker, and the allotted time. Be sure your speech fits these parameters.
Planning: Give yourself time to brainstorm, think about what you want to say, and create a speech outline.
Writing: Now you are ready to put pen to paper (or your hands on the keyboard) and start writing.
Speech Practice : Remember to practice. To ensure you keep eye contact and do not read directly off a piece of paper, you should consider writing your key points onto notecards or using some other tactic. Look at your notes periodically. Practice in front of a mirror, a video camera, or a live audience.

Graduation speech template ensures a meaningful speech

What Is An Example Of A Short Graduation Speech?

“ Friends, family members, esteemed faculty, and fellow graduates, I am thrilled and honored to have been allowed to speak on this important day. My first task is to thank everyone who has supported the members of this graduating class in some way. We would not be here without you.

We were fortunate enough to make many beautiful memories together, both good and bad. The fact is that we are all the people we are because of these experiences. Graduates, close your eyes and think back to your favorite memory from high school. Do you have one in your mind? How many people here are part of that memory? I encourage you to share that memory with someone in the next few days.

As we venture out into the world, each of us will pursue a different love, passion, and path, all unique. We are all talented and intelligent in our own ways. I urge all of you to use those talents to help you reach your dreams. Alan Alda once said, “Don’t ever aim your doubt at yourself. Laugh at yourself, but don’t doubt yourself.”

Friends, I wish you the best of luck in your upcoming adventures. We finally made it! Thank you.”

A former English teacher and currently an elementary principal in a rural school, Pam has honed her speaking skills in the classroom and before professional groups. Pam enjoys sharing her insights about public speaking almost as much as she enjoys running, which she does daily.

Graduation Speech Outline: Expert Guide To Follow

None of us can sweep the great relevance of any outline under the carpet. You can’t write a paper without outlining. But if you want to score a lower grade, fine, you can do without it. However, those willing to craft a top-notch paper worth A+ will need to create a speech outline and organize their research in one place before writing. Let us see how to achieve that in a matter of seconds.

What Is A Graduation Speech Outline?

It refers to your graduation speech plan, where you structure and organize the main points into paragraphs to make it easier for you to write the essay. In other words, it involves writing quick phrases or summary sentences for every issue you will cover in each paragraph, thus giving you a picture of how your speech will unfold.

Graduation speeches are of varied natures, including:

6th-grade graduation speech,
High school graduation speech,
commencement speech
Valedictorian speech, and
College or university graduation speech

We will look at the comprehensive outline of each of these speeches in a moment. Now, you may sometimes have to submit a graduation speech outline as a separate assignment before you start writing the speech itself. But even if you don’t have to hand one in, it’s highly recommended to create an outline as part of your writing process. Before you begin your graduation speech outline, you should have your topic and some preliminary research to find relevant sources at hand already.

Graduation Speech Sample

Dearest friends and teachers. First of all, thank you deeply allowing me to make this speech to you. This is a day that I know that I will remember for many years and that I hope that you will too. As I stand amongst you then please know that I feel proud and happy to have been your classmate and I know that the experience of this will stay with me for the rest of my life.

So, first of all, thank you, my classmates. We have shared many good memories and experiences down the years, and for this I am deeply grateful. Today is a day for both looking forwards and backwards; for looking to the future at what we can make of our lives from this point, and also of reflecting back on what we had made us the people that we are at this point. When I do this, I think cannot but think of the times that I have shared with all of you I know that in the future, if things are ever difficult, that I will have memories to draw on.

Of course, I must also thank the school and the teachers with whom I have spent these years. So, yes, thank you. It’s as a result of your hard work that we’re all standing here today, and I know that some of the lessons that I have learned from you, both in and outside of the classroom, are going to stay with me for a long time. I know that, perhaps, myself and some others that are here might not have been the ideal students all of the time that you had to deal with us, but I know that now, looking back, many of us are deeply grateful for your efforts. A school without committed teachers is just a collection of dead buildings and empty spaces, so thank you for making sure that both my, and my classmates’ years at high school have been as full of life as you could possibly make them. Once again, when I think about the future developments that I want to under take in my life and the people that I want to be, I look to some of you and know that I have some fine examples to follow. I know that these examples will stay with me, as they will stay with other students, for many many years.

I cannot give this speech without mentioning and thanking my parents who have been my important source of motivation and inspiration throughout my time at high school. It is with them in mind that I have worked my hardest and it is their support that has helped me most when times were difficult. Without them I do not believe that I would be graduating, let alone standing before you and giving this speech.

Finally, it is left to wish you all the best for the future and to offer what advice I can. The only thing that I can say is to wish that you all stay true to yourselves and follow the same impulses of comradeship and hard work that have brought us all to this point today. Thanks to all of you, I have learnt new ways of understanding just what hard work and integrity can look like, and I only hope that all of as given more and more opportunities in which exercise this traits and to prove to all whom we meet that we are capable of them. So, once again thank you and please believe me when I say that I wish you all the very very best for the future, whatever it may hold.

Importance of Writing a Graduation Speech Outline

A graduation speech template is essential in the following number of ways:

It helps you identify the ideas to use in your paper
It will help you organize thoughts
It gives you an understanding of the information flow
It will help you capture every detail in your final speech

That said and done, a college or high school graduation speech outline will help you write your paper better and faster. And while we have our expert writers on standby, always here to help, it can’t hurt to learn how to write a graduation speech outline by your own. You just need to write somesting like “Please, do my assignment for me!” and we’ll deal with your task soon.

Writing a 6th Grade Graduation Speech Outline .

Although most students find this speech’ easy to write,’ it still requires a clear and comprehensive outline to guarantee success. This speech is at the end of your 6th grade, and it has its peculiarities when writing. Check the following guidelines out to write an exceptional 6th-grade graduation speech:

Have a theme in mind: Graduation speeches can serve various purposes, including advising other graduates, thanksgiving, or reflections about the future. For a sixth grade speech, the two latter goals will fit better. Having such in mind will help you know where to major your research extensively.
Identify the supporting evidence: You can choose to have pictures or any other relevant images applicable to your speech. These can be pictures of your first day in school or when you participated in memorable events.
Outline the main points: It helps you know what you will discuss, with what kind of emphasis. Such a step will allow your speech to flow smoothly. When you have an outline of the points to discuss, you will be able to capture every relevant thought at the end of your paper.
Write a draft: Make your first draft and read it through to identify any missing links. It will form the basis of your second or final paper.

A 6th-grade graduation speech employs the use of clear and precise language. Do not give complex ideas that will complicate the final paper.

How To Write a High School Graduation Speech

A high school graduation speech outline varies from that of the 6th grade regarding the advanced level of study at this stage. You will have had more experiences and memories to give than for a 6th or 8th-grade speech. The elements below are essential in such a paper outline:

Recognize the people to thank: Your parents, friends, and teachers have to appear in this part. However, identify each of these parts’ contribution separately so that you don’t end up repeating yourself.
Identify memorable high school moments: These can include your first day in high school, how you performed in your first exam and so forth. Such moments should stand out and be able to move the audience.
Highlight your prospects: Which college or university are you eyeing in the future? What course are you inspiring to pursue?

Finish off your high school speech with a great, inspirational quote, providing food for thought and making the lesson memorable.

College Graduation Speech Outline

These guidelines will help you craft a masterpiece college graduation speech:

The introduction: Draft points on the number of years you’ve been in college, your first impression of college life, and the transition from high school to college life.
The body: It should have a reflection of the significant events that transpired in your college life. Give the outline of points on the lectures, practical attachments, and general performance in college.
The conclusion: Give your prospects on what you intend to do after college. Do you plan to advance your studies or go straight to the job market?

Remember that a college graduation speech should be more detailed and comprehensive than the other two previously discussed. So, i f you have poor writing skills, it’s better to hire our experts to write your paper online .

Valedictorian Speech Outline

Valedictorian speeches offer a fond reflection on the high school years. They connect with audiences using anecdotes and lots of name-dropping while also showing gratitude. Consider the following for your valedictorian speech template:

Have the names of people at hand
Think of memorable stories to include
Outline relevant quotes to use

How To Write a Commencement Speech

Special guests give these at the graduation ceremony. Although they come at college graduation ceremonies, they are also part of high school graduations. A commencement speech outline includes:

a welcome to the guests
acknowledgement of staff and faculty
a heartfelt expression of your feelings on being asked to speak at such an auspicious event

Remember also to include well-selected quotations and stories to mark the importance of such events in life. You can use a commencement speech example from our guru speech writers today. Now, this is important:

How To Start a Graduation Speech

Any graduation speech regardless of its type has a common way of beginning. The following should be part and parcel of your graduation speech introduction:

Thank the previous speaker
Introduce yourself, including your name
Share something catchy such as a concise story, joke, quote or fact

Starting with an incident which arises the curiosity of the audience is a great way to start. If you find this a daunting task, use our pre-graduation speech introductions examples.

Things To Say in a Graduation Speech

Your speech should include the following:

Thanking the people who helped you
Restating memorable moments
Giving what you intend to pursue in the future
Advice to those remaining
A call to action

Our top-notch graduation speech examples will give you more insight into what to include in your paper. Using a graduation speech example from our quality online writing service can motivate you towards writing a masterpiece speech. We also offer affordable and high-quality paper writing help . Give it a try today!

10 Steps For Writing An Unforgettable Graduation Speech

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

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

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

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

1. Pick a theme.

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

🎓 Here are some popular themes to consider:

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

2. Begin with gratitude.

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

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

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

3. Use a motivational quote.

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Get personal.

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

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

Learn how to a sensational graduation card here.

5. Infuse your personality.

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

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

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

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

6. Reflect, then look ahead.

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

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

7. Avoid clichés

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

Here are some ideas:

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

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8. Create a call to action.

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

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

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

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

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

9. Keep it brief.

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

10. Practice, practice, practice.

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

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

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How to Write a Graduation Speech: Quotations, Outline and Tips

It is a great honor and responsibility to deliver an end of the year speech at a graduation ceremony. That is why you are most likely to go deep into searching for inspiring speech ideas. Naturally, a person who is chosen to speak in front of their peers, parents, and teachers would experience a mixture of feelings – excitement, thrill, agitation, doubt, anxiety, pride – you name it, it’s all there in a young graduate.

Any student hopes to create a powerful and lasting graduation speech wow effect on the audience. For this reason, you will browse through multiple how to speech ideas to simplify the writing process. No matter what you find online, you will still have to make it personal.

Since you will discover many sample motivational speeches and funny graduation speech ideas in your pursuit of perfection, you should make sure to keep the balance between jokes and serious stuff. Sad speeches are also not very popular on graduation day, so try not overwhelming your audience with heavy thoughts.

To brighten up your speech, it is always a good idea to use various sayings such as the end of school quotes, highschool quotes, and graduation quotes from parents. You will find some nice examples further in the article.

Despite the vast number of recipes for a perfect speech, many graduates keep making the same mistakes. To avoid stepping in the same shoes, read on and learn how to write a good motivational graduation speech.

Graduation Speech Outline

A clear and comprehensive outline is a guarantee of success. Having created an efficient point-by-point plan, you will be able to structure your graduation speech clearly and include all necessary ideas. As Heinrich Heine once said: “True eloquence consists in saying all that is necessary, and nothing but what is necessary.”

Like any other piece of writing, a speech should be well thought-out and neatly organized. Since only a thorough preparation brings fruitful results, you will have to create a list of things you want to discuss. The more detailed your outline is, the easier it will be to craft an eloquently impassioned speech.

To ensure you have enough time to proofread your draft and make necessary corrections, it is better not to extend the process of creating an outline. How long before your speech performance should you finish drafting your speech outline? The sooner the better, but not less than two days before the event.

How to Start a Graduation Speech

So how to start off a speech? A good speech should begin with an enticing opening. A catchy introduction captures the attention of the audience and puts everybody in the right mood.

A brilliant speaker should be familiar with the following good ways to start a speech:

Hook: A sentence or question that immediately connects your listener to you on the emotional level.
Thesis: One to three sentences stating your intention. It can either be sharing your life story or someone else’s experience that offers a valuable lesson.
Role model: Introduce the person you look up to and briefly explain why he or she inspires you.
Theme: Announce the topic of your speech and mention how you connect to it personally. If you choose to talk about a few topics (like confidence, failure, and endurance), name all of them at the beginning.

Whichever option you choose, it is crucial to make your introduction brief and to the point. It will show the listeners your intention to keep the speech short and informative. The audience will appreciate it and lend an attentive ear to your message more willingly.

How to End a Speech

The way your speech ends defines how the audience will remember it. Since we tend to cherish most memorable and important things, the conclusive statement should be strong and impressive. To compose such conclusion, you can try the following methods:

Leave an inspirational message for student audience
Make an encouraging call to keep the spirits high
Use an appealing slogan or catch phrase to end on a positive note
Include one or two funny graduation messages to lighten the mood after serious conclusions

How to Make a Speech Longer

If a question “how long is my speech?” popped into your head, it means the moment has come to time yourself. In case your speech came out shorter than expected, you can make it longer while keeping it relevant in one of these ways:

Check whether the speech has an introduction and conclusion. A traditional speech formatting requires a speaker to structure their speech so that it consists of an introduction, body, and conclusion. So you can add a few sentences to either an opening or closing part of your message to strengthen your argument.
Add an anecdote or story from personal experience to relate to the subject. Even if you have already included a personal example, don’t be shy sharing a few to make a point. The crucial thing here is to ensure the stories you choose to tell are relevant to your main argument.
Use motivational quotes. You can cite one quote and then repeat it at the end of your speech highlighting its relevance and topicality. Before you settle down on a quote to use, make sure to check its origin in multiple sources.
Remind your classmates of the good times you had at school. Warm memories evoke pleasant feelings, and this is what graduates need to have on their graduation day – tons of positive emotions. Remember not to embarrass teachers and parents present
Use graduation slogans. Dream it, believe it, become it. To infinity and beyond. Party hard, Rock and Roll, we’re the class you can’t control!

You can search the web for more examples of popular catch phrases, mottos, slogans, etc., but you can also come up with your own!

8th Grade Graduation Speech

Middle school graduation speeches signify one’s transition to the top level – high school. It is a significant and thrilling moment for a student. To write a fine speech, you don’t have to drag yourself through multiple sample graduation speeches. Just take a moment and think of those three years spent in middle school.

Here is a brief outline for an 8th grade graduation speech to get you going:

Introduce yourself.
Share your first memories and impressions at the school.
Reflect on your experience and tell what you enjoyed about it.
Talk about your teachers and other students.
Discuss your prospects for the future.
Thank your parents, teachers, classmates, administration, and staff for making your middle-school years worthwhile.
Conclude with one of the best middle school graduation quotes you can find or coin one yourself.

Check out an amazing Jack Aiello’s graduation speech to find some inspiration.

High School Graduation Speech

The second important speech you will either listen to or deliver is usually scheduled for high school graduation. Finishing high school is one of the first greatest achievements of a young person. That is why high school graduation speech ideas revolve around personal accomplishments, funny stories, bright memories, and hopes for successful future.

Even though the end of studying is a happy event, some speakers chose to give rather sad high school graduation speeches. Surely, there are many things to miss about school, but the graduation ceremony should give more positive and aspiring feelings.

In their senior night speeches, high school graduates need to focus on reminding their peers about:

their achievements at school to boost students’ self-esteem and create a positive image of themselves
future possibilities to encourage taking a suitable career path and continue grow both personally and professionally

Here are the quotes you can use in your graduation speech:

End of School Quotes

“If a man neglects education, he walks lame to the end of his life.” – Plato
“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” — Arthur Ashe
“Change is the end result of all true learning.” – Leo Buscaglia
“Your life is your story, and the adventure ahead of you is the journey to fulfill your own purpose and potential.” —Kerry Washington
“A great accomplishment shouldn’t be the end of the road, just the starting point for the next leap forward.” – Harvey Mackay

Highschool Quotes

“In school, you’re taught a lesson and then given a test. In life, you’re given a test that teaches you a lesson.” – Tom Bodett
“It doesn’t matter that your dream came true if you spent your whole life sleeping.” – Jerry Zucker
“True terror is to wake up one morning and discover that your high school class is running the country.” Kurt Vonnegut
“High school is about finding who you are, because that’s more important than trying to be someone else.” – Nick Jonas
“What makes a child gifted and talented may not always be good grades in school, but a different way of looking at the world and learning.” – Chuck Grassley

Graduation Quotes from Parents

Congratulations on your graduation, son! We are proud to see you paving your own way to adult life. We wish you every success in all your future endeavors. Your loving and supportive parents.
I am sure today is one of your many accomplishments to come. It warms my heart to look back at all the work you have done at school and see your bright future. No matter which path you choose, you can always rely on my complete support and understanding.
Today is the day to praise your hard work and reflect on the amount of effort put into becoming a graduate. I am a very proud parent of a responsible and smart kid who is now ready to choose his/her own path. I will always be there for you whenever you need me.
I am both happy and sad to see my little girl graduating. You have become an intelligent young woman so quickly. I am thankful for everything your teachers did to help you grow and become a wonderful person you are.
You have made this day a very special occasion to all our family. We are all proud to see you graduating and planning your life as a smart and independent adult. We love you and will always support your choices and decisions.

When looking for high school graduation speech examples, you are most likely to find texts that have already been used numerous times. Such speeches are no longer unique or topical. You can use parts of them, but it won’t be enough to construct a speech to remember.

A good high school valedictorian speech example can only offer a few wise thoughts or quotes. However, it will not make your speech as personal as it should be. For a first-time speaker, the best you can take from a sample high school graduation speech is a structure and possible themes. However, you are also at risk of copying clichés and truisms from a sample that will diminish the importance of your message.

Since writing a good speech by yourself can be a time-consuming and exhausting challenge, it is safer to seek professional help. Having found a reliable writing service, you can have a qualified writer compose a speech to remember. While your writer will be working on your message, you carry on with choosing your graduation outfit.

College Graduation Speech

Most college graduation messages tend to look alike and repeat themselves. Naturally, it is not easy to find new words of encouragement for college students every year. Since finishing school is an annual event, college graduation speeches by students are rarely as exciting and memorable as you would expect.

If you consider turning a college graduation speech sample found online into a worthy message, you should realize the risk of getting a second-quality piece of writing. As a rule, sample speeches include numerous sayings and quotes such as cheesy quotes on colleges, pompous college motivation quotes, over-enthusiastic quotes about college life, and tons of overwhelmingly positive quotations on college experiences.

It is utterly up to you what kind of quotes to incorporate into your speech, but here is one of the best how to speech ideas for college students you can find – DO NOT try to stuff your message with as many wise phrases as possible. It is unnatural and rather pretentious, and no one likes it. Using one motivational quote for college students will be enough. You can make it two if they are not too lengthy and add value to your narration.

Here are a few motivational speech topics for college students you can consider to mention in your message to make it worthy and special:

Personal Growth
Valuable Contributions
Humanity and Compassion
Professional vs. Personal Priorities
Love and Respect

Graduation Speech Quotes

Here are some quotes from famous people you can use in your speech:

Short Graduation Quotes

“Take pride in how far you’ve come. Have faith in how far you can go. But don’t forget to enjoy the journey.” —Michael Josephson
“Patience, persistence and perspiration make an unbeatable combination for success.” – Napoleon Hill
“Try not to become a man of success, but rather try to become a man of value.” – Albert Einstein
“Keep in mind that neither success nor failure is ever final.” – Roger Babson
“Hitch your wagon to a star.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Funny Quotes about Graduation

“Even if you are on the right track, you will get run over if you just sit there.” – Will Rogers
“It is clear the future holds great opportunities. It also holds pitfalls. The trick will be to avoid the pitfalls, seize the opportunities, and get back home by six o’clock.” – Woody Allen
“If you feel that you have both feet planted on level ground, then the university has failed you.” – Robert Goheen
“Thankfully dreams can change. If we’d all stuck with our first dream, the world would be overrun with cowboys and princesses. So whatever your dream is right now, if you don’t achieve it, you haven’t failed, and you’re not some loser. But just as importantly—and this is the part I may not get right, and you may not listen to—if you do get your dream, you are not a winner.” – Stephen Colbert
“Graduates: you will never have more energy or enthusiasm, hair, or brain cells than you have today.” – Tom and Ray, The Car Talk Guys

Quotes about Endings (Finishing)

“It is always important to know when something has reached its end. Closing circles, shutting doors, finishing chapters, it doesn’t matter what we call it; what matters is to leave in the past those moments in life that are over.” ― Paulo Coelho
“Life is not so much about beginnings and endings as it is about going on and on and on. It is about muddling through the middle.” – Anna Quindlen
“In the long run, we shape our lives, and we shape ourselves. The process never ends until we die. And the choices we make are ultimately our own responsibility.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
“There’s a trick to the ‘graceful exit.’ It begins with the vision to recognize when a job, a life stage, or a relationship is over – and let it go. It means leaving what’s over without denying its validity or its past importance to our lives. It involves a sense of future, a belief that every exit line is an entry, that we are moving up, rather than out.” – Ellen Goodman
“I wanted a perfect ending. Now I’ve learned, the hard way, that some poems don’t rhyme, and some stories don’t have a clear beginning, middle, and end. Life is about not knowing, having to change, taking the moment and making the best of it, without knowing what’s going to happen next. Delicious Ambiguity.” – Gilda Radner

“Oh the Places You’ll Go” Quotes for Graduation

“Oh the places you’ll go! There is fun to be done! There are points to be scored. There are games to be won. And the magical things you can do with that ball will make you the winning-est winner of all.”
“Congratulations! Today is your day. You’re off to Great Places! You’re off and away! 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.”
“Kid, you’ll move mountains.”
“You’re off to Great Places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting, So… get on your way!”
“You’ll get mixed up, of course, as you already know. You’ll get mixed up with many strange birds as you go. So be sure when you step. Step with care and great tact and remember that Life’s a Great Balancing Act. Just never forget to be dexterous and deft. And never mix up your right foot with your left.”

Spiritual Graduation Quotes

“What we are is God’s gift to us. What we become is our gift to God.” – Eleanor Powell
“You get to consciously decide what has meaning and what doesn’t. You get to decide what to worship.” – David Foster Wallace
“Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant.” – Robert Louis Stevenson
“God wants us to know that life is a series of beginnings, not endings. Just as graduations are not terminations, but commencements. Creation is an ongoing process, and when we create a perfect world where love and compassion are shared by all, suffering will cease.” – Bernie Siegel
“You have to leave the city of your comfort and go into the wilderness of your intuition. You can’t get there by bus, only by hard work and risk and by not quite knowing what you’re doing, but what you’ll discover will be wonderful. What you’ll discover will be yourself.” – Alan Alda

By now, you should realize that writing senior class president graduation speeches or simple thank you speech for graduation is not that simple at all. To save your time and ensure your farewell message to peers, teachers, and parents is both valuable and entertaining, consider getting a part of speech help from reputable speech writing services . So don’t hold off the joy of getting a speech to remember and order one from a professional writer.

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16 Best Graduation Speeches That Leave a Lasting Impression

By Kristi Kellogg and Noor Brara

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

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"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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Home › Inspirational Graduation Speeches

Inspirational Graduation Speeches

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Do you have a graduating son or daughter? A high school or college graduation is a major milestone in life that should not be ignored. The graduation ceremony celebrates hard work and encourages students to move into the world to achieve great things. This hopeful message is further cemented through an inspirational graduation speech.

As you celebrate graduation day and wish your student good luck, consider the following commencement advice you can share as well as inspirational quotes for a happy graduation.

Here are the best graduation speeches and inspirational message graduation quotes to inspire you and change your life.

Page Contents

1. 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. Barack Obama

During his graduation message, Barack Obama spoke with hope. He urged the graduating students to be hardworking yet pragmatic as they sought justice, equality, and freedom. Howard University is one of the nation’s most distinguished and historically Black universities.

In 2020, Barack Obama also shared a graduation message to the Class of 2020 as part of Graduate Together: America Honors the High School Class of 2020 . These students had to learn to overcome obstacles and challenges that classes before them had not had to deal with due to the pandemic.

The disappointments of missing a live graduation, those will pass pretty quick…What remains true is that your graduation marks your passage into adulthood—the time when you begin to take charge of your own life. It’s when you get to decide what’s important to you: the kind of career you want to pursue. Who you want to build a family with. The values you want to live by. And given the current state of the world, that may be kind of scary. Barack Obama

Obama goes on to offer hope and support as graduating students set out to navigate a very new landscape and shape a new world.

2. David Foster Wallace – Kenyon Graduation Speech, 2005

There are these two young fish swimming along, and they happen to meet an older fish swimming the other way, who nods at them and says, “Morning, boys. How’s the water?” And the two young fish swim on for a bit, and then eventually, one of them looks over at the other and goes, “What the hell is water? David Foster Wallace

In this commencement address, Wallace reminds us that we often forget, or take for granted, the most obvious things around us. He acknowledges it’s difficult to stay aware of what’s happening in the world, especially when you’re too busy dealing with the monologue inside your head.

That’s what a college education is about, according to him. It’s learning how to think and exercising some degree of control over your thoughts so you can choose what to pay attention to.

Our thoughts affect our realities, and the ability to choose how you “construct meaning from experience” will determine the lenses from which you see the world and how you react in return.

3. Natalie Portman – Harvard Graduation Speech 2015

Sometimes your insecurities and your inexperience may lead you, too, to embrace other people’s expectations, standards, or values. But you can harness that inexperience to carve out your own path, one that is free of the burden of knowing how things are supposed to be, a path that is defined by its own particular set of reasons . Natalie Portman

Natalie Portman majored in psychology at Harvard University because she believed it would help her acting. She graduated in 2003. In her commencement speech at the 2015 graduation ceremony, she spoke of her own self-doubt and gave an inspiring, funny , and wisdom-filled speech for the graduating class.

Portman said even though she was a successful student and went on to find success as an actress, she still struggled with her own worth but eventually learned to set her own goals.

4. Ellen DeGeneres – Tulane University, 2009

Never follow anyone else’s path, unless you’re in the woods and you’re lost and you see a path and by all means you should follow that. Don’t give advice, it will come back and bite you in the ass. Don’t take anyone’s advice. So my advice to you is to be true to yourself and everything will be fine. Ellen Degeneres

This is one of the funniest graduation speeches ever! All humor aside, this speech shows why it’s better to be true to yourself instead of trying desperately to be a second-rate version of someone else.

For years, Ellen thought being bisexual might prevent her from being a successful stand-up comedian, but it’s just not the case. Ellen proved that you could be successful, whoever you are, if you worked hard and learned from your past experiences— even one as sad as the death of a loved one.

5. Charlie Munger – University of California Law School, 2007

*Skip to 4:08 for the actual speech

You’re not going to get very far in life based on what you already know. You’re going to advance in life by what you’re going to learn after you leave here. Charlie Munger

Education doesn’t stop after you graduate from college. It doesn’t stop after you finish your MBA or PhD either. Munger says, “Wisdom acquisition is a moral duty. It’s not just something you do to advance in life.”

It’s a moral duty because it’s only through continuous learning that we can add to the vast knowledge of man kind. If we stopped learning, progress in all industries—computers, finance, engineering, biology, stops as well.

6. Michelle Obama – Eastern Kentucky University, 2013

If you’re a Democrat, spend some time talking to a Republican. And if you’re a Republican, have a chat with a Democrat. Maybe you’ll find some common ground, maybe you won’t. But if you honestly engage with an open mind and an open heart, I guarantee you’ll learn something. And goodness knows we need more of that, because we know what happens when we only talk to people who think like we do — we just get more stuck in our ways, more divided, and it gets harder to come together for a common purpose. Michelle Obama

As far as inspirational speeches go, Michelle Obama’s speech is very actionable. Her advice is simple (not easy), talk to each other with an open mind.

Different religion, race, political stand, it doesn’t matter. We can all learn from one another.

7. Jim Carrey – Maharashi University of Management, 2014

This is one of my favorite motivational speeches because Jim Carrey is such a good example of his message.

So many of us choose our path out of fear disguised as practicality. My father could have been a great comedian, but he didn’t believe that that was possible for him, and so he made a conservative choice. Instead, he got a safe job as an account. Jim Carrey

Carrey’s father lost his accounting job when he was 12, and it was then he realized that failure is inevitable , whether you’re doing what you want or not. If that’s the case, you might as well take a stab at doing something you love.

8. J.K Rowling – Harvard Commencement Address, 2008

I was set free, because my greatest fear had been realized, and I was still alive, and I still had a daughter whom I adored, and I had an old typewriter and a big idea. J.K. Rowling

This is probably one of the most inspirational videos for writers and creatives everywhere.

Rowling was suffering from depression when he wrote the Harry Potter books. But through grit and patience with herself, she was able to complete the first Harry Potter Manuscript and, stay motivated to continue even when feeling down. Thanks to her drive and imagination, the world has Harry Potter !

9. Bono – University of Pennsylvania, 2004

In case you don’t know him, Bono is the lead singer of the famous band U2. Of course, being the rock star he is, he leads his speech by saying, “My name is Bono, and I am a rock star.”

In his speech, he urges graduates to carefully consider their big idea, in saying:

What are you willing to spend your moral capital, your intellectual capital, your cash, (and) your sweat equity in pursuing outside of the walls of the University of Pennsylvania? The world is more malleable than you think, and it’s waiting for you to hammer it into shape. Bono

Being a rock star, I thought Bono would talk about the perils of fame, the road to stardom or something to that effect. But instead, he talked about big ideas and changing the world.

10. Amy Poehler – Harvard University, 2011

Life is like a heist that requires good drivers, an explosives expert, a hot girl who doubles as a master of disguise, and this is a hard and fast rule. If the Rock shows up, they’re on to you . Amy Poehler

During her commencement speech at Harvard University in 2011, Amy Poehler expressed her surprise at the invitation to do so. She delivered a speech with jokes, advice, and insight as she looked out at the graduates.

She told them to head out into the world with love, light, joy, and laughter. Finishing off her speech in true Amy Poehler fashion, she also says, “please don’t forget to tip your waitresses.”

11. 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 . Meryl Streep

Meryl Streep is an actress most famous for Sophie’s Choice , The Devil Wears Prada , and Mamma Mia . She was asked to deliver the commencement speech to Barnard College in 2010. Her speech was dripping with extreme personality, honesty, and bluntness.

Streep shared her own personal stories and emphasized the importance of empathy. The audience was all women, so the speech was directed at them, but she shared many graduation messages that applied to everyone.

12. Kerry Washington – George Washington University, 2013

You and you alone are the only person who can live the life that writes the story you were meant to tell . Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington is an actress, producer, and director. In 2018, she was named the eighth highest-paid television actress and has won several awards, including the President’s Award.

In her commencement speech at George Washington University in 2013, she urged graduates to go beyond their comfort zones and live their own stories.

How to Create Your Own Inspirational Graduation Speech

Do you need to write your own inspirational speech or curate the perfect graduation message? Here are a few tips on how to do just that, so you can inspire others like the commencement speeches above.

Start With a Quote

Start with a relevant quote. This sets the overall tone of your speech and grabs your audience’s attention. A good example of this is a quote by David Brinkley, “A successful man is one who can lay a firm foundation with the bricks others have thrown at him.”

Provide Scenarios

Now that you have drawn in the audience, present a what-if scenario to encourage the audience to continue following your thought process.

You can also provide a scenario encouraging the audience to put themselves directly into it. Suggest that they imagine doing something and ask what they would do if it doesn’t go as planned.

If you are giving a graduation message, ask where they see themselves years down the road or what they picture success as. You can then offer advice and insight based on your own experience.

Ask Questions

You should also ask questions, whether they are literal or rhetorical. When you present a question to someone, the person intuitively answers it, keeping them engaged with what you have to say.

Pause for Silence

When giving an inspirational speech, it also helps to pause for a few seconds after important points. This pause allows the audience to react to what you have to say and settle down before you continue with your next statement. The pause is also a good way to draw attention to what you want to say.

What Makes an Inspirational Graduation Speech?

The best graduation speech should have a very uplifting message that leads with education and wisdom. The graduation speech should focus on the graduates’ achievements and accomplishments. It should highlight the sacrifices that may have been made.

When writing a graduation or inspirational speech, ensure a strong theme or message is conveyed to keep your audience’s focus and attention.

Do you remember the speaker on your graduation day? What pearls of wisdom did he or she share?

Related Reading : Don’t forget what you worked so hard on in school! Check out our 150 Education Quotes for Teachers and Students , too. These gems are good for any graduation card when offering congratulations.

Natalie Seale

3 thoughts on “Inspirational Graduation Speeches”

Am really inspired by these brief messages,indeed education has no boundary; therefore, I say to you,” education is immeasurable, regardless of what disciplines or background we find ourselves.

These are very inspiring. My favorite is from J.K. Rowling. Thanks for sharing

Actually Very Inspiring ……thanks for sharing

How to Make a Middle School Graduation Speech

Last Updated: April 10, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Alexander Ruiz, M.Ed. . Alexander Ruiz is an Educational Consultant and the Educational Director of Link Educational Institute, a tutoring business based in Claremont, California that provides customizable educational plans, subject and test prep tutoring, and college application consulting. With over a decade and a half of experience in the education industry, Alexander coaches students to increase their self-awareness and emotional intelligence while achieving skills and the goal of achieving skills and higher education. He holds a BA in Psychology from Florida International University and an MA in Education from Georgia Southern University. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 432,489 times.

We all know giving a graduation speech can be nerve-wracking, but it is also an exciting opportunity. You get to highlight the important moments that your class has experienced over the years. To make a middle school graduation speech, you should write a speech that thanks your teachers, parents, and peers and also highlights some important moments throughout the year. Your speech will be more memorable if you include a few jokes, quotes, or words of advice.

Writing Your Graduation Speech

A sample graduation speech showing opening greeting remarks.

You could say something like “Good afternoon Principal Jacobs, teachers, staff, family, and most importantly my fellow graduating class.”

Encourage your classmates to always remember and cherish the good times you had together.

Step 4 Highlight a few important moments that brought the class together.

For instance, you could say “During the fall charity drive, our class made history by raising over three thousand dollars.”

Say something like: "I want to thank the teachers, staff, Principal Nolan, and, of course, my parents for a wonderful Lemon Valley experience. Without your support and guidance we would not be where we are today."
You could add: “I would especially like to thank my classmates for making middle school one of the most fun and rewarding experiences of my life."

Elevating Your Speech

For example, you should say “We will always remember when Mr. C. made a perfect dunk on the basketball court” instead of “I will always remember when Mr. C. made a perfect dunk of the basketball court.”

Avoid making insulting jokes that may offend someone in the audience.
You could tell a quick story that highlights a funny moment from the last year. For example, "Mr. D was so eager to come to school and teach us that one day he wore his shirt inside out."

Step 3 Don’t talk too much about individuals.

That being said, it is okay to give a tribute to someone if they deserve special recognition. For example, perhaps the entire graduating class had the same teacher. In this instance, you can mention that teacher individually.

Step 4 Keep your speech between 10 to 15 minutes in length.

Alternatively, you could choose a quote that was hung on your classroom wall and talk about how you can apply this quote to future successes.

For example, you could quote a piece of advice from a celebrity commencement speech.
Alternatively, you could say something serious like "The journey ahead may not be easy, and most of us will stumble at some point. The important thing is that we get back up and keep working towards our goals and dreams."

Delivering the Speech

Expert Q&A

Stay Confident! Never let your audience think you are nervous or shy. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
Keep the speech lively. Nobody wants to fall asleep at their own graduation. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
It may help to take a deep breath before starting your speech. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

Make sure the content in your speech is respectful to all. Thanks Helpful 30 Not Helpful 2
If you are going to tell a story or joke about an individual, you may want to run it by them first. That way you will not offend them during the graduation ceremony. Thanks Helpful 26 Not Helpful 3
Do not chew gum while speaking because it may be difficult for people to understand what you are saying. Thanks Helpful 28 Not Helpful 4
If you want your speech to be a surprise, do not practice with your friends. Thanks Helpful 24 Not Helpful 8

↑ https://www.unr.edu/writing-speaking-center/student-resources/writing-speaking-resources/speech-introductions
↑ http://grammar.yourdictionary.com/style-and-usage/graduation-speech-writing-outline.html
↑ Alexander Ruiz, M.Ed.. Educational Consultant. Expert Interview. 4 August 2020.
↑ http://www.jostens.com/grad/grad_cp_hs_grad_guide_graduation_speech.html
↑ https://mitcommlab.mit.edu/be/commkit/public-speaking-how-to-practice/
↑ https://www.realsimple.com/work-life/graduation-speech-ideas with https://mitcommlab.mit.edu/be/commkit/public-speaking-how-to-practice/

About This Article

To make a middle school graduation speech, start with a greeting like "Good morning, everyone!" Then introduce yourself, since not everyone in the audience will know you. You can then share some of your favorite memories of middle school by talking about important things that happened or notable school events. Also, include some positive comments about the future, like how excited you are for high school. Before your time is up, thank those people who made middle school a great experience, like your teachers or principal. To learn how to add jokes or famous quotes to your speech, scroll down! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Columbia University’s Shafik rebuked over Gaza crackdown but avoids censure

University oversight panel says president undermined academic freedom by allowing New York police to break up Gaza protest.

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 17: President of Columbia University Nemat “Minouche” Shafik (L), and David Schizer (R), Dean Emeritus and Harvey R. Miller Professor of Law & Economics, testify before the House Committee on Education & the Workforce at Rayburn House Office Building on April 17, 2024 in Washington, DC. The committee held a hearing on “Columbia in Crisis: Columbia University’s Response to Antisemitism.” Alex Wong/Getty Images/AFP (Photo by ALEX WONG / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)

Columbia University ‘s embattled president came under renewed pressure as a campus oversight panel sharply rebuked her administration for clamping down on a pro-Palestinian protest at its New York campus.

President Nemat Minouche Shafik has faced an outcry from many students, faculty and outside observers for summoning New York police to dismantle a tent encampment set up on campus by students protesting against Israel’s war on Gaza.

Keep reading

Pro-palestine chants for ‘azaadi’ on us campus sparks debate, photos: columbia university moves classes online after gaza protests, columbia university leaders face scrutiny over anti-semitism on campus.

After a two-hour meeting on Friday, the Columbia University senate approved a resolution that Shafik’s administration had undermined academic freedom and disregarded the privacy and due process rights of students and faculty members by calling in the police and shutting down the peaceful protest .

“The decision … has raised serious concerns about the administration’s respect for shared governance and transparency in the university decision-making process,” the senate said.

The senate, composed mostly of faculty members and other staff plus student representatives, did not name Shafik in its resolution and avoided the harsher language of a censure.

The resolution also established a task force to monitor the “corrective actions” the senate asked the university’s administration to take in dealing with protests.

There was no immediate response to the resolution from Shafik, who is a member of the senate.

She did not attend Friday’s meeting and still retains the support of the university’s trustees, who have the power to hire or fire the president.

Columbia spokesperson Ben Chang said the administration shared the same goal as the senate – to restore calm to the campus – and was committed to “an ongoing dialogue”.

Nationwide protest

Columbia University students who inspired pro-Palestinian demonstrations across the country said on Friday that they had reached an impasse with administrators and intended to continue their encampment until their demands were met.

The development puts more pressure on university officials to find a resolution ahead of planned graduation ceremonies next month – a problem that campuses from California to Massachusetts are facing.

As the death toll mounts in the war in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis worsens, protesters at universities across the country are demanding schools cut financial ties to Israel and divest from companies they say are enabling the conflict.

Police arrested more than 100 people on Columbia’s campus last week and removed the protesters’ tents from the main lawn of the school’s Manhattan campus, but the protesters quickly returned and set up tents again.

The mass arrest at Columbia prompted similar protests and encampments at several other universities in the US.

On Friday at least 40 protesters were arrested in Denver at the Auraria Campus, an institution shared by the University of Colorado Denver, Metropolitan State University of Denver and the Community College of Denver, according to a statement from the school.

In Texas, the president of the University of Texas at Austin, Jay Hartzell, faced a similar backlash from faculty on Friday, two days after he joined with Republican Governor Greg Abbott in calling in police to break up a peaceful pro-Palestinian protest.

Dozens of protesters were taken into custody, but charges were dropped because authorities lacked probable cause – or reasonable grounds – for making the arrests, the Travis County Attorney’s Office said.

Nearly 200 university faculty members signed a letter expressing no confidence in Hartzell because he “needlessly put students, staff and faculty in danger” when police in riot gear and on horseback moved against the protesters.

Meanwhile, hundreds of protesters at George Washington University in Washington, DC, remained gathered for a second day on Friday. The school said students did not follow directions to leave, and several were suspended and temporarily barred from campus.

The White House has defended free speech on campus, but US President Joe Biden denounced what he called “anti-Semitic protests” this week and stressed that campuses must be safe.

Student-led protests against Israel’s war on Gaza have spread overseas.

At the prestigious Sciences Po university in Paris, pro-Israeli protesters challenged pro-Palestinian students occupying a school building on Friday. Police kept the two sides apart.

Pro-Palestinian students at the prestigious university later agreed to call off their action in return for an “internal debate” about the university’s ties to Israel.

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50 Top Graduation Speech Ideas (& Examples) ᐅ TemplateLab
50 Top Graduation Speech Ideas (& Examples) ᐅ TemplateLab
50 Top Graduation Speech Ideas (& Examples) ᐅ TemplateLab
50 Top Graduation Speech Ideas (& Examples) ᐅ TemplateLab

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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.
50 Top Graduation Speech Ideas (& Examples)
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. Download 25 KB #10. Download 24 KB #11. Download 45 KB #12. Download 128 KB #13.
Graduation Speech [20 Examples + Template]
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.
Graduation Speech Ideas (18 Outline Examples)
Graduation Speech Ideas (18 Outline Examples) A Graduation Speech is also known as a Commencement Speech. It is a speech given by a graduating student in university, college, or high school on behalf of the graduating class to fellow graduates, guests, parents, family members, and teachers.
Writing a Graduation Speech is Easier Than You Think
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.
How to Craft a Memorable Graduation or Commencement Speech
Crafting a memorable graduation speech involves using storytelling to leave a lasting impression on the graduates. Storytelling has a unique ability to captivate an audience, evoke emotions, and make key messages more relatable. By sharing personal anecdotes or inspiring stories of individuals who have achieved great things, public speakers can ...
How to Write a High School Graduation Speech (+ Examples)
The best high school graduation speeches aren't long and boring since the ceremonies already take hours. Aim for an address that doesn't exceed 10 minutes. Keep your audience's attention and save some for other people's speeches. Your graduation speech should only be around 500 to 600 words. You have to read it slowly and articulate the ...
How To Write a Graduation Speech
Step 4: Rehearse. Rehearse frequently and out loud so that you internalize your message. Understand why you are speaking the words you have chosen and repeat them in rehearsal until you feel the essence of your message in your gut. If you go blank during your speech, don't panic.
How to Write a Graduation Speech
Here are a couple of graduation speech examples: "Truth be told, I never graduated from college, and this is the closest I've ever gotten to a college graduation. Today, I want to tell you three stories from my life. That's it, no big deal. Just three stories." -Steve Jobs, Stanford 2005. "Good morning graduates, families and friends ...
How To Write A Graduation Speech: 12 Practical Tips
Tip #1: Read Inspirational Quotes. Reading inspirational quotes is a great way to start brainstorming graduation speech ideas. The best quotes can pack a whole speech into only a sentence or two. Here are a few examples to get the fire of inspiration started: "The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you ...
Crafting Memorable Graduation Speech: Examples & Tips
Emphasize the importance of shared experiences and friendships. Looking Forward. Discuss hopes and dreams for the exciting possibilities ahead. Conclusion. Wrap up with a memorable and inspiring closing message. All these elements make a strong and memorable speech and help make your graduation successful.
This writer analyzed 100 graduation speeches
I decided to put some of my coding tools to work, analyzing 100 of the most popular recent commencement speeches. Here are the four tips they all contain: 1. Dream big. "I think it is often easier to make progress on mega-ambitious dreams. I know that sounds completely nuts. But, since no one else is crazy enough to do it, you have little ...
Graduation Speech Ideas: How to Inspire Your Class
Create a Graduation Speech Outline. By following this outline, you'll learn how to write a speech about yourself that leaves a lasting impact on the graduating class and the audience. Infuse your speech with your personality, emotions, and unique perspective, creating an authentic and heartfelt reflection of your journey and the aspirations of ...
Crafting Your Commencement Speech Outline
Creating a commencement speech outline is an essential step in crafting a memorable and impactful address. By following this step-by-step guide, you can develop a well-structured outline that will serve as the foundation for your speech. Whether you choose to write your speech yourself or use the Graduation Speech Co.'s AI-driven service ...
Graduation Speech Template
When speech writing, it is essential to remember that it is always important to have three specific parts to your graduation speech outline: an introduction, the body of the speech, and a conclusion. While there are some conventions to follow regarding that structure, the actual content can be flexible.
Graduation Speech Outline: Easy Step-by-Step Guide
College Graduation Speech Outline. These guidelines will help you craft a masterpiece college graduation speech: The introduction: Draft points on the number of years you've been in college, your first impression of college life, and the transition from high school to college life. The body: It should have a reflection of the significant ...
10 Steps To Writing A Graduation Speech
If you've been chosen to deliver a graduation speech, follow these steps to ensure you write a speech that inspires your fellow graduates and audience.
How to Write a Graduation Speech
Graduation Speech Outline. A clear and comprehensive outline is a guarantee of success. Having created an efficient point-by-point plan, you will be able to structure your graduation speech clearly and include all necessary ideas. As Heinrich Heine once said: "True eloquence consists in saying all that is necessary, and nothing but what is ...
16 Best Graduation Speeches That Leave a Lasting Impression
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 ...
12 Most Inspirational Graduation Speeches
The audience was all women, so the speech was directed at them, but she shared many graduation messages that applied to everyone. 12. Kerry Washington - George Washington University, 2013. You and you alone are the only person who can live the life that writes the story you were meant to tell. Kerry Washington.
How to Make a Middle School Graduation Speech (with Pictures)
4. Keep your speech between 10 to 15 minutes in length. People do not want to sit and listen to a thirty minute graduation speech. They will likely lose focus and only remember a few key stories anyways. The best graduation speeches are short and to the point. Keep your speech somewhere between ten and fifteen minutes.
Columbia University's Shafik rebuked over Gaza crackdown but avoids
The White House has defended free speech on campus, but US President Joe Biden denounced what he called "anti-Semitic protests" this week and stressed that campuses must be safe.

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

Table of Contents

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

Opening with Impact

Building the Body of Your Graduation Speech

Concluding with Inspiration

Delivery Techniques for Confident Speaking

Practicing Your Graduation Speech

Overcoming Nervousness and Stage Fright

Maintaining Eye Contact

Analyzing Renowned Graduation Speeches for Inspiration

Steve Jobs’ Storytelling Mastery

Oprah’s Unflinching Honesty

Themes and Messages That Resonate with Graduates

Overcoming Obstacles

The Power of Perseverance

Life Lessons Shared During Graduation Speeches

The Power of Kindness

True Grit and Tenacity

Making a Positive Impact

Celebrating Achievements and Acknowledging Contributions

Academic Achievements, Extracurricular Activities

Teacher Support, Parental Guidance

Common Issues in Writing and Delivering Graduation Speeches

Overcoming Writer’s Block

Navigating Technical Troubles

Handling Stage Fright

FAQs on Writing and Delivering a Graduation Speech

How do you write a 3 minute graduation speech?

How do I start a graduation speech?

What is the most important message of a graduation speech?

About The Speaker Lab

Get Started

How to Write a Graduation Speech (Graduation Speech Examples)

How to Write a Commencement Speech

A Good Structure When You Write a Commencement Address

Start with Something Funny

Be Inspirational

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

End with an Inspirational Call to Action.

Sample Graduation Speech Themes

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

How to Craft a Memorable Graduation or Commencement Speech

How to Deliver an Inspiring and Motivating Graduation Speech

Reflecting on past experiences

Addressing the challenges and opportunities that await graduates

Acknowledging the achievements of graduates

Expressing gratitude and appreciation

Using storytelling to leave a lasting impression

Tips for Engaging and Entertaining Graduates

Incorporating humor

Addressing the emotions and feelings of graduates

Techniques for Creating a Memorable and Impactful Graduation Speech

Inspiring and motivating graduates

Leaving a lasting impression

Engaging and entertaining graduates

1. What is the purpose of a graduation or commencement speech?

2. Who typically delivers a graduation or commencement speech?

3. How long should a graduation or commencement speech be?

4. Can I find examples of famous graduation or commencement speeches online?

How to Write a High School Graduation Speech (+ Examples)

How Long Is a High School Graduation Speech?

High School Graduation Speech Template

Introduction

How to Write a Graduation Speech for High School

Pick a Theme

Begin With Gratitude and a Self-Introduction

Make It About Everybody But You

Recall High School Memories

Share Advice

Incorporate Your Personality

Leave Your Audience Inspired

Proofread Your Work

Practice Your High School Graduation Speech

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Crafting the Perfect Graduation Speech: A Guide with Examples

What is a Graduation Speech?

Elements of Graduation Speech

How to Write a Graduation Speech?