Claire Kennedy, U of T honorary degree recipient, June 20, 2023

TL;DR

A U of T alumni gives advice to the Class of 2023, emphasizing the importance of good habits, self-reflection, perseverance, and giving back.

Transcript

I didn't need these when I first graduated from U of T. Chancellor Patten, President Gertler, Dean Yip, distinguished faculty, senior staff, governors fellow graduates and our family, loved ones and friends and my cherished daughters Gretchen and Harriet. How very honored I am to stand before you today having received an honorary Doctor of ... Read More

Key Insights

• 🦖 U of T is recognized for its excellence, accessibility, and scale in post-secondary education.
• 🤯 Good habits of mind and action, such as self-reflection, curiosity, and being dispassionate, are crucial for personal and professional success.
• ❓ Perseverance and regular physical activity are important for overcoming adversity and maintaining overall well-being.
• 👪 Giving back to others, including friends, family, charities, and civil society organizations, is fulfilling and provides opportunities for personal growth.
• 🥺 Following one's passions and dreams is important, but it is equally important to lead intentions and develop good habits to achieve them.
• 🦖 U of T's alumni community is extensive and offers opportunities for ongoing support and engagement.
• 🌍 The speaker emphasizes the role of AI in today's world and the need for human qualities like passions and dreams to flourish alongside technological advancements.

Questions & Answers

Q: What advice does the speaker give to the Class of 2023?

The speaker advises the Class of 2023 to lead their intentions and develop good habits of mind and action, including self-reflection, curiosity, and being slow to anger.

Q: How does the speaker describe U of T?

The speaker describes U of T as one of the best universities in the world, with excellence, accessibility, and scale in post-secondary education. They emphasize the importance of staying connected to and supporting the university.

Q: What are some examples of good habits of mind and action mentioned by the speaker?

The speaker mentions three good habits of mind: reflection, curiosity, and being dispassionate. They also highlight the importance of perseverance and regular physical activity as good habits of action.

Q: How does the speaker encourage giving back?

The speaker urges the graduates to be giving of themselves, both to their friends and family and to charities and civil society organizations. They suggest starting with giving back to U of T, as there are numerous opportunities available.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The speaker, a U of T alumni, shares advice with the graduating Class of 2023, commending their hard work and encouraging them to savor their achievements.

• They highlight the excellence and accessibility of U of T and urge the graduates to stay connected and support the university.

• The speaker emphasizes the importance of developing good habits of mind and action, including reflection, curiosity, and being slow to anger. They also encourage perseverance and giving back to others.