A HELM Leadership Fellow's commencement speech

Four the past four years, I have sat through four convocations, opening the school year, and four commencements, when people get their diplomas and delight in being done with school "forever." Through these ceremonies I have heard both incredibly insightful and incredibly dull speeches, tidbits of wisdom, and long-winded speeches with very little point. So as the oldest HELM fellow and a college graduate (which is weird now that it applies to me), I would like to pass along a few things I have learned in college so the younger classes' times at school will be a little easier.

For the class of 2014: First off, I'm sorry I won't be able to meet you. If I could be a HELM Fellow forever, I just might. But you are in very good company. HELM really does change your life. You can laugh about it now, but wait four years, find me on Facebook (or whatever we're using in 2014) and tell me whether or not I was right (I will probably be right). There are couple of things to know about major transitions like going to college. It's okay to be freaked out about going to college. It's okay to feel excited about new things, too. It's okay to be a little of both. Embrace the newness and revel in your independence. It's a really fun time. But the most important thing is to find and maintain a strong support system of friends and family. These people will be your pool of strength to get through the all night study sessions, rants, and stressful times.

For the class 2013: Don't be afraid if your plans change. Sometimes it is the best thing that can happen to you. I know it was for me. Take the time to more fully realize what you truly value and try to claim your beliefs. Nothing will be more important than this, because once you realize your beliefs and values, you will realize the biggest part of who you are. It will also be a tool to discern what God is calling you to do to best serve and live out Christ's mission.

For the class 2012: The more I have learned in college, the more I have realized how little I will know. That's OK. Take every opportunity you can to learn from not only your own experiences, but that of your peers and "real grown-ups" in your life. Your parents are, and probably always will be, right most of the time. Use that to your advantage. If you haven't figured it out yet, work on balancing school and play. Don't get so caught up in schoolwork that forget to stop and appreciate everything God has done.

For the class of 2011: First, Congrats on getting this far. I only have one piece of advice for you. Stay present. Reminiscing about the past four years is good, and looking toward the future is necessary, especially when everyone wants to know what you'll be doing next year. But remain in the moment with your friends. Don't be in such a hurry to rush off and change the world like I know each of you will. Senior year goes by fast, and if you don't take time to appreciate it, it'll be gone and you won't get it back.

For the class of 2010: Yay us! Reunion in Nashville?*

*Four of the six HELM Leadership Fellows graduating this year will be in Nashville by fall.