My submission for Graduation Speaker 2013

My goal is to inspire you by telling a story which is probably similar to many of tonight’s graduates and to thank all those who put up with our continual procrastination, crying fits of rage over lost flash drives, or the dreaded phrase that puts every parent into the fetal position…“I’m changing my major……again.”

I could stand here detailing my life’s journey which brought me to this milestone—but honestly that could take all night—and I’m ONLY allowed 5 minutes.

As I share my experience, remember: This is NOT about me. I represent what each and every person here can achieve if they choose to follow their inner voice and strive to improve themselves, regardless of their age or past.

If my high school counselor and teachers could see me now—they’d say “SEE!!! WE to-ld you so!” Many of them saw potential in me I never dared to acknowledge or imagine. I simply blew them off as they encouraged me towards a more productive future. I showed up for high school, did what was needed to earn high grades, but didn’t truly apply myself.

I’m sure my teachers were shocked I had zero intention of going to college—even though I spent all four years in AP classes. College was never discussed or encouraged when I was growing up; I was taught you only needed hard work to support a family. As graduation approached, I hid a pregnancy from school officials in order to walk across stage with my class. I worked too hard to have that honor taken away because I chose to have a child. So hard in fact, 15 years later I was told in an Interview that I was in the top 10% of my class….and I never had a clue!!!!!

For years, “Jack-of-all-trades” summarized my education and resume perfectly. I worked hard at various jobs, in countless industries, and never broke the poverty level—EVER! Without my parents’ unconditional love and support, I never would have made it this far. There were moments in my past where I literally should not have survived, let alone hold a college diploma. I always thought my experience and work history were valuable assets, but unfortunately, my lack of education was constantly brought up during interviews. As a single parent, I knew I did NOT want my daughter in the same dead-end struggle of living paycheck-to-paycheck. I wanted to show her that a college degree would lead to a meaningful career …not just a J-O-B.

For that reason, I attempted college….three times: fire-fighting, culinary arts, and now Business Administration. Sooooo, if your house catches on fire I can man a fire hose, then make you a gourmet dinner, and balance your financial records.