So I've been asked to give a speech...

**kristalyn_04** · 04-01-2010 11:30 AM

OK, so my graduation ceremony for the Art Institute is happening this May. I finished my degree in August but had to wait all this time to walk. Anyway, I was nominated by some faculty members to give the commencement speech, because apparently I am "an inspiration to those around me" and "an example of perseverance in the face of adversity"

I am honored that my professors thought this of me... but I'm not sure I want to do this. I have spoken in front of groups before, but never on this scale, and I think I am expected to share some pieces of my personal life that brought me to where I am now. I just don't know if I'm comfortable doing that... I have a hard time even sharing that kind of personal information with one person I don't know, nevermind hundreds!

Plus my family will be there. All my friends say I should do it, I am still on the fence. What do you all think? Should I seize this once in a lifetime opportunity? Would you do it?

**rcoreyus** · 04-01-2010 02:28 PM

I'm generally in favor of taking once in a lifetime opportunities when they aren't likely to result in death <g>.

Speaking to a big crowd is the same as speaking to a small group - pick a few people near the front and talk to them.

You shouldn't be expected to share a lot of personal information. Think about speeches you have heard and what you liked and didn't like.

**Mes T** · 04-01-2010 05:40 PM

I think you might regret it if you don't do it, even if your speech ends up not going as planned.

rcoreyus is right, speaking to a huge crowd is really no different from speaking to a smaller one. I have a fear of public speaking but find that for me it's easier, the bigger the group is.. because once there are SO many people.. it seems like it matters a little bit less, almost?

Well anyway what I'm trying to say is GO FOR IT!

**WildChild** · 04-01-2010 05:41 PM

I find speaking in front of an auditorium full much easier than small talk socializing. But I may just be a little weird in that. You'll have a positive, receptive audience and that really helps.
Keep your story general. You don't have to tell all but you can encourage all. I was so bothered a couple years ago when one of my nephews graduated and the speakers were all gloom and doom- one scolded the graduating class for being too dependent on their parents and the other appolgised to them because the world is such a mess!
I thought, I would told them very excitedly that we are living in one of the great transistional times in human history, that we are anticipating more change in the next 20 years than we have seen since the agricultural revolution, that the opportuinties for those with vision are limitless. You can find so much that is positive if you just look! Go for the possibilities!
You'll do fine.

**p3375** · 04-01-2010 06:04 PM

agree w/ all the previous replies ..... go! do!
oh, one thing that helped me when doing my father's eulogy.... remember it's not about you, it's about those sittin in the audiance. Focus on them and much of the load will lift. At least, it did for me
oh, second thing (sorry) I've seen strong people crumple when asked to perform their kata's or even fight in tournament before an audiance. You have, I understand, done so many times. I was scared the first time I did it but felt so BIG and accomplished afterwards. Am sure you'll feel the same after presenting at graduation.
Congrats!!! on your degree!!
P

**Isabellacat** · 04-01-2010 09:27 PM

Congratulations!!! I used to get so nervous having to speak in front of a big group of people,but not anymore. Especially the one job I had a few years back doing political canvas work.

I say do it!! Only share things that you would feel comfortable sharing in front of a large group. Don't have to go way into detail but just say what feels comfortable to say. Just get up there and do it.

**kristalyn_04** · 04-02-2010 08:33 AM

Thanks so much everyone. I submitted a draft of my speech to the graduation committee, I will hear back within the next few weeks. Thanks for your congrats and input. I'll let you all know if I end up doing it.

**Beautiful Disaster** · 04-02-2010 12:18 PM

You should definitely do it. Don't talk about anything you're not comfortable talking about. Let it come from your heart. The number of people there doesn't matter.....that part of it is all in your head and its what people use to pysch themselves out. My undergrad degree was partially in Communications (LOTS of public speaking), and one thing throughout the years I have noticed in GREAT speakers is their ability to talk, to smile, to laugh. It is you, your character, your personality they want......and is the very reason you were nominated.

So go for it:

Talk DON'T read (tell your story....don't read it)
Look into the audience NOT down at a paper
Smile (people like people who smile

)
Focus on the main points, don't delve too much into little minor details
Remember the words "YOU are an inspiration". That is why you're there. Because you inspire people. So let your light shine. Be who you are....because that's what they like about you!!