How to Become a Commencement Speaker for a High School Graduation
Commencement is a milestone in a teenager's life. It marks a major transition and is an important and official ceremony. There are many traditions involved, and one of them is to invite a commencement speaker to offer words of wisdom to the graduating class. The selection for this important and distinguished role varies from district to district, but there are several options to consider if you wish to be a commencement speaker at a high school graduation.
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Instructions
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Reach out to your own high school first. Use the school's website to find contact information. Find out the name of the principal as well as the superintendent. You might also consult the school's webmaster to find out if a specific person is in charge of commencement. Many high schools have former graduates come back to be commencement speakers, so this should definitely be your first step.
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Decide what you would like to speak about. Take notes on the topic and come up with an angle for your speech. Do not continue with the process unless you definitely have something to say, a message to impart. Make a quick outline highlighting the key areas you will focus on in the speech.
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Write a cover letter addressed to the principal and the superintendent. Use the format for applying for a job and modify it to an application to make the commencement address. Introduce yourself and explain that you are a former graduate of the high school. Describe why you are interested in being the commencement speaker for graduation, and provide a synopsis of what your address would be about if you are selected to speak at graduation. Include complete contact information in the cover letter, including email, phone number and mailing address.
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Send the cover letter to the principal as well as the superintendent. Delivering the letter in person is another option. Showing up personally might also afford a better opportunity to make a good impression and open up communication about why you are interested in speaking. Wait to get a response.
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Make a list of other schools if your request is denied by your high school. Remember, they may have already selected a speaker or have a set tradition, such as inviting back the former valedictorian. Research the school using its website. Modify the cover letter to reflect the school you are now contacting. Repeat the same steps as above.
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Tips & Warnings
Include a resume to showcase your credentials with the cover letter.
Do not contact the school again if it says it is not interested. The school might keep your information on file and contact you for a future commencement ceremony.
References
- Photo Credit graduation image by timur1970 from Fotolia.com
