Browsing by Subject "Motivational Speaking"
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Item University Commencement Speeches: Soundbites about life for those jumping into it(2021-05) Epstein, ZachMotivational speeches take a myriad of forms. Commencement speeches serve a niche within that genre – an opportunity for highly successful individuals to deliver wisdom about life to young adults entering the next stages of their lives. Modern day speakers range from politicians, to entertainers, to athletes, and more. Each speaker brings a different message and method; all serve critical roles in revered commencement ceremonies. This thesis explores commencement speeches in three ways. First, it explains the history of these speeches and how they evolved from 1642 to 2021. Next, it analyzes the individuals delivering the addresses, as well as the university administrators who select them. Finally, it develops case studies of successful speeches – identifying what components of the speech left an impact, and what components fell flat. I conclude the thesis by delivering my own commencement address text to fellow Spring 2021 Plan II graduates – borrowing strategies from the legendary speakers that came before me.