During my the final spring semester of my MFA I, along with all the graduate students, received an email requesting individuals “to submit an outline of remarks to the Graduate Studies Office.” On a whim I wrote out an outline and a draft. Of course, like most students, I waiting until the last minute. As it happened to be I was also wrapping up the year in my full time position and final performances. I was surrounded by a number of things to do.
The Graduate Studies Office planned to “know the decision about commencement speaker by May 7th.” On May 12th I received an email notifying me of the decision that I had “been selected to be the graduate commencement speaker.” I was confused, surprised, and excited. I knew the fear would settle in later. And it did.
I hardly recall any of speeches before approaching the podium I was so nervous. My role as a speaker was different from any other student speaker because I would return to the school the following Monday. A myriad of worries ran through my mind.
The night before the speech I figured out a way to have my gram hear the speech. She had planned to attend commencement but had a surgery a few weeks before so she was forced to pass. We discussed the use of my cell phone and making sure she was at the ready to answer her phone. In the video I posted an annotation indicating when I placed my cell phone on the podium. Nobody knew save a few friends and family.
Afterward I told other grads and their families. Everyone responded with joy and awe that she was there. They asked why I didn’t tell everyone. The answer, of course, is that I’d be back to work on Monday. I am seen as a (tech) pusher by some. That I didn’t tell those in attendance is my only regret.
The beauty of not telling everyone… Gram knew. =D
The text of my speech is posted below and in the ‘More info’ section on the corresponding YouTube page here.