Advanced Achievement Award Speech

In the fall of 2012, I began an academic journey by pursuing a Master of Science in Entertainment Business at Full Sail University. This past week, I learned that I am the recipient of the Advanced Achievement Award. Full Sail describes this award as “A student that represents the heart and soul of their degree program, and shows the potential many students of their degree program wish to achieve.”  

This honor yields the opportunity to address my cohorts during the commencement exercise. Due to a scheduling conflict, I am unable to attend graduation and, therefore, unable to address my class.  The following is the speech I have prepared despite not being able to attend the commencement ceremony.

First, congratulations to my follow graduates.  This is a substantial accomplishment; we have earned a moment to celebrate this significant success. But like any successful undertaking, we do not achieve greatness in isolation.  Let us reflect upon the support structure that shores us up: our family, friends and mentors. Without these champions, our task would have been nearly impossible.

It has been a privilege to study with such wonderful cohorts, and it is my honor and pleasure to make this address on your behalf.  It has been your mindsets, drive, and commitment to excellence that has propelled us through this program.  It is my expectation that success will find each one of us.  Some of the lessons we have been taught here at Full Sail have been sweeping, but I believe it is the subtleties we have learned that will bring us distinction.  Email etiquette, setting priorities and honoring deadlines are as important as the work itself.

I would be remiss if I did not recognize the University and its high-caliber instructors.  Thank you to Full Sail University for providing this learning opportunity. The skills imparted to us through an amazing course selection and brilliant instructors have provided me with the tools I need to succeed.  I feel well equipped to pursue my dreams. 

And I know you all have dreams, too.  But I caution you not to live in your dreams.  Instead, act on those ambitions with passion and don’t be afraid of failure.  We can learn from our failures.  Winston Churchill said, “Success consists of going from failure to failure without loss of enthusiasm.”

It is now our time to make our places in the world; it is our chance to make the world a better place.  We have our aspirations, and we now have the skills. Let’s make a positive difference.