Graduation speeches are a highlight of any graduating class and allow speakers to share insights and advice with classmates. Graduation speeches can take many forms, from heartfelt expressions of thanks to loyal friends and family to inspiring visions for the future. For maximum effect, graduation speeches should combine seriousness with humor in an appropriate balance that understands their audience - experienced commencement speakers know how to use humor without demeaning other individuals.
Consider your speech's theme and find ways to incorporate it throughout its text. One useful strategy is using the Past-Present-Future framework as a guide; this will help focus your ideas and create a logical flow for the presentation.
Past: Take some time to reflect upon both your own achievements and those of the graduates, and how their hard work led to this point in time. Take this chance to thank those who have assisted you along your journey such as teachers or parents for their assistance.
Present: Celebrate some of your class's successes, such as academic accomplishments, athletic victories, charity events, or any other significant milestones. Also discuss each graduate's hopes and aspirations for the future; this can provide inspiration to stay on their chosen paths.
Present your most essential message at the conclusion. This is the last thing your audience will hear and a great way to ensure they remember your most vital points - one effective strategy is restating the big idea you established during introduction.
