How to Write a Graduation Thank You Speech

As you graduate from school to move onto the next phase of your life, you'll want to thank people for helping you along the way. If you're privileged enough to speak at your graduation ceremony, you've got the perfect opportunity to express your gratitude.

Instructions

1. Bear in mind that you're speaking on behalf of your entire class and not just giving your own "thank you" speech. While you can mention one or two people personally, let the rest of your words represent your fellow graduates. Save the personal speech for your graduation party with family and friends.

2. Brainstorm by creating a list of everyone that helped you and your classmates make it to graduation. Decide which of those played the most vital role during your school career and give them a prominent place in your speech.

3. Express gratitude for your parents. You can address your parents specifically, but also speak for the group by making light of some of the things you and your fellow graduates put all of your parents through during your childhood years.

4. Thank your teachers and coaches for their guidance. Single out a few who consistently go out of their way to help students with tests and projects, who are always available to listen to personal problems or who make learning fun.

5. Recognize your classmates who laughed, cried and supported one another from freshman year to graduation. Inject a little humor and nostalgia into the speech by reminiscing about school dances, spirit week or senior activities. Also offer a wish for hope, success and happiness in the future.

6. Practice your speech in front of family and friends and ask them if you've left anyone or anything out. Videotape yourself, if possible, to determine which areas you need to cut or expand. Although the speech is short, dwelling too long on one topic or story can lose the audience.