A few weeks ago, I was given the incredible honor of addressing the University of Kansas School of Professional Studies graduates, families and supporters at the Master’s Hooding Ceremony at KU Edwards Campus.
When I sat down to write my speech, I really struggled.
Four different degree programs were represented at the hooding: information technology, organizational communication, engineering management and project management. The industries and careers of the graduates were also widely different. We all came from different fields and sectors.
The biggest challenge for me was the variety in age and career stage. There were employees who had worked at KU for decades and came back for more education, students who took time off mid-degree to care for their parents or siblings, students who went to grad school directly after their bachelor’s education, etc.
I am 20 years old and was chosen as the speaker at a graduate hooding ceremony. I began to question and doubt myself. What could I possibly know that would be valuable advice or well-wishes for this impressive group of professionals? What qualifies me to talk to this group? Is there anything I can share besides a song lyric or cheesy quote from a famous public speaker?
I spoke with friends and family to gain their perspectives and suggestions on what my topic should be. My dad told me to talk about how great my mom is (it’s true, but does that add value for the 34 other graduates?), the speech requirements suggested sharing about my academic journey (anyone else in the crowd a freshman in high school during the pandemic?), but I really wanted to share something inspiring, impactful or actionable.
Then, it hit me. A few people told me I should share a message of gratitude to my support systems overall and some insights from my first year in the workforce. One friend said something that really stuck with me: “Encourage people to create positivity and care for each other.”
As a new professional, I quickly began to understand how the people you work with, the environment, company culture and attitude can turn around a bad day or a bad week. Knowing your supervisor cares and is rooting for your success helps people take risks at work, reaching beyond what is comfortable and safe to create creative solutions to problems. Encouraging and caring for others is something I am passionate about and felt equipped to share with the graduates. Below is an excerpt of my speech.
“No matter where you work, whether it be a nonprofit, the government, an educational institution, a corporate company, your own startup or you haven’t quite launched your career yet, there’s one thing I think we should all take into our work: heart.
“Through my undergraduate studies in digital marketing communications, service learning, Jewish studies, leadership studies and this master’s degree in project management, I have learned and refined so many skills. Like all of you, I have honed in on software use, technical skills, time management and more.
“Every organization you work for will have different policies, software, protocol, methodology and organizational leadership. But despite those factors changing from organization to organization, project to project, task to task, your unique ability to connect with others and build rapport and relationships will support your career forever.
“Despite my short time in the workplace (only about nine months), throughout my life (of about 20 years), I have had so many amazing mentors, peers, allies, colleagues and supporters. My parents, professors, former teachers, roommates, friends, little sisters and even near strangers have taken the time to support me, believe in me and help me grow. As someone recently reminded me, that’s special and truly is a privilege.
“Soft skills are the backbone of your abilities. Communication, leadership, relationship building, adaptability, critical thinking, teamwork and conflict resolution — these are the skills that will help you progress, grow and thrive in a position and your career.
“So, bring care and compassion into your role, listen to the voices of your coworkers, embrace and utilize the diversity in their experiences and backgrounds.
“Remember that your greatest asset is your ability to connect, to lead with empathy and to build authentic and meaningful relationships.
“Through our courses, discussion posts, projects, papers and dedication to education, we learned how to do the work. And we learned how to do it well. But most importantly, I hope you remember to do it with heart.”
Alexis Greenberg is a recent KU graduate with a master’s degree in project management. She is currently Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City’s digital marketing specialist.