Undergraduate Student Speaker
One of the highest distinctions a student can receive is to be selected as the Undergraduate Student Speaker for Commencement. It is a chance to represent Binghamton University by giving an address that inspires, encourages and reflects the vision and hopes of the Class of 2012. The address not only commemorates the event, but also gives a student the opportunity to pay tribute to those who have helped him/her along the way as well as tout the accomplishments of fellow graduates.
During the spring semester, three graduating seniors will be selected to give the address at one of the University Commencement ceremonies to be held on Sunday, May 20, 2012.
Eligibility
To be eligible, the student must:
- Be an undergraduate
- Be a winter 2012 graduate or a spring 2012 candidate
- Have good disciplinary standing at the University
- Demonstrate academic success
- Be an active participant in the University community (i.e., leadership position in club or organization, mentor on campus or in greater Binghamton community, etc.)
Application Requirements
Complete applications are due on Friday, March 9, 2012 by 12 p.m. Please note: Only 100% complete applications will be considered.
- Undergraduate Student Speaker Application Checklist (PDF)
- Personal statement – include information about yourself as well as why you wish to represent your class at Commencement
- Two letters of recommendation
- Provide each recommender with a copy of the Recommendation Instructions (PDF)
- Recommenders must be professors, administrators or staff members at Binghamton University
- Resume - a brief one (1) page resume that includes your school, major and any university activities. It may also include work and internship experience.
- A complete first draft of the speech you’d like to give at Commencement
Speech Guidelines
- The speech should be substantive, meaningful, and entertaining
- The topic should be relevant to graduates, but should also address the general audience
- The address should inspire, encourage and reflect the vision and hopes of the Class of 2012.
- Speak of new goals and how the graduates will attain these goals; try to avoid bemoaning the world's problems
- Original content is required; this speech should be developed expressly for the Commencement ceremony
- It is often helpful to focus on 2-3 key points/messages you want to convey to the audience
- Speech length should not exceed 5 minutes
