Senior Graduation Speeches

The two most important things for you to consider as you compose your graduation speech are the purpose of the speech and the audience. Ask yourself why you are standing in front of the illustrious guests sitting before you. Is it to entertain them (no), is it to edify them (no), is it to reveal how Mirman has prepared you to meet the challenges that lie ahead (yes)?

Organization
Speeches are generally organized around a specific theme. Many of the themes listed below are based on the same idea but offer a slightly different angle. Consider the following:

the future/dreams/new beginnings/choices/goals
maturing/change/life lessons/passages/challenges
success/values/education/friendship

You may want to develop your speech around a unifying element (such as a symbol, song, quotation, work of art or literature, metaphor, admirable figure, a personal passion, hobby or interest). Such an element provides a strong focus and makes the speech stand out.

The Beginning of the Speech
You do not have to, but many people start their speech by thanking the audience: Dr. and Mrs. Mirman, the board, the administration and faculty, family and friends, classmates.

Begin with a strong opening. If you are using a unifying element, an anecdote, a quote, an analogy, a song lyric, etc., should be employed in your intro. In any event, make sure your theme is clear and present.

The Middle of the Speech
This is the bulk of your speech.  Keep it engaging.  It may be serious and amusing, poignant and entertaining, all at the same time.  The most important thing is for you to keep your audience interested and your focus clear. If you have a unifying element, make certain that you stick to it in the body.

The following topics are frequently cited:

• Lower School and Upper School trips and assemblies
• Science Fair
• Field Day
• Senior Service
• Thursday breakfasts; Senior lunches
• Third and Fourth Year plays
• Specific course work, units studied or learning moments

The End of the Speech
Alert the audience that you are drawing to a close.  Try to conclude with an impact—you want your speech to be remembered. Consider using the same quote, lyric, or deeply moving thought from the introduction to remind the audience of your theme. You might also want to re-address those assembled, as you did in your introduction.

Requirements

• Absolutely no more than 1 1/4 pages, double spaced (this comes out to two minutes)
• No inside jokes (remember, most of the audience won’t understand what you think is so funny)
• No individual teacher thank you’s