Dear President Ng, distinguished faculty members, families, and fellow graduates,
Good morning/ good afternoon!
My name is Joyphy and it is my honor to represent the many voices of the graduating class today.
Like many of my classmates, I came to UIC because I desired a college experience that would challenge me. Soon after I started studying here, I felt stressed with group projects, presentations, papers and reports, and wondered if I could really thrive in this environment. But four years have passed, I found that these tasks were the stepping stones imperceptibly cultivating and strengthening our abilities in all aspects.
We have responsibilities to our families, to our communities, no matter what our majors or aspirations are. No matter which division we are graduating from, we cannot solely focus on personal gains, prestige, or aspirations of grandeur. Instead, we must challenge ourselves to be civically engaged. Life after college should not be just trying to make a living. The challenge is to use the connections that we have made, the unique passion that we have developed, and the degrees we have obtained here after four years to do something relevant and positive. It is our turn to contribute to society.
Lastly, to our parents and families, thank you for giving us your selfless, unconditional love and care. To our teachers, thank you for teaching and guiding us into the next phase of life patiently and whole-heartedly. To our friends and peers, thank you for joining us in this challenging experience of university life, and making the effort enjoyable and fulfilled.
Some of us will pursue a postgraduate degree, while others will join the competitive workforce bright and young. We will grow older, and have our own families. Most of us will spend the rest of our lives chasing our dreams, and join the quest for true happiness. Without the help and support of our families, teachers, and friends we have made here, and our hard work and determination, none of these would be possible.
Thank you again for all of your help and support, and good luck to everyone in your future endeavors.
