Jethro Sia Modequillo UP Speech

Summary

Jethro, the class valedictorian, delivers a heartfelt speech to the University of the Philippines' graduating class of 2024. He shares three key wishes: to pursue what brings joy, to be open to failure as a part of learning, and to give back to the community. He acknowledges the unique privilege of free higher education and urges graduates to honor this by contributing positively to society. Jethro also expresses gratitude to the university staff, families, and his loved ones for their support throughout his academic journey.

Takeaways

• 🎓 The speaker, Jethro, is the valedictorian of the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science class of 2024 at the University of the Philippines.
• 💡 Jethro emphasizes the importance of doing what you love and finding joy in your work, suggesting that passion should have a place in one's life.
• 🌟 He shares a quote by Pablo Picasso, highlighting the idea that everyone is born with a unique talent or passion worth pursuing.
• 🧩 Jethro admits to the struggles of balancing academic excellence with the fear of failure, and how it led to burnout and resentment.
• 🤝 He expresses gratitude for parents who did not impose expectations of success, allowing him the freedom to explore and learn without pressure.
• 🔄 The valedictorian encourages being open to failure as a part of the learning process, stating that mistakes are evidence of active engagement and curiosity.
• 🏆 Jethro acknowledges the significance of the University of the Philippines providing free higher education and the responsibility to give back to society.
• 🙌 He calls on the graduates to use their education to make the nation a better place, reflecting on the generosity of the Filipino people.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Jethro thanks the staff, administration, families, and friends for their support throughout the graduates' academic journey.
• 👫 He dedicates a special thanks to his family and partner, acknowledging their unwavering support and presence throughout his college years.
• 🌈 The speech concludes with a message of pride and congratulations to the graduates for overcoming challenges and achieving their degrees.

Q & A

Who delivered the speech on behalf of the graduating class of 2024?

The speech was delivered by Jethro, the class valedictorian and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science summa cum laude.

What is the significance of Jethro's speech being the commencement address?

Jethro's speech is significant as it represents the graduating class's perspective and experiences, and it is a tradition for the valedictorian to deliver the commencement address.

What is Jethro's first 'magic wish' for the graduating class?

Jethro's first wish is for the graduates to do what they love, emphasizing the importance of finding joy in one's work and life.

What quote from Pablo Picasso does Jethro reference in his speech?

Jethro references a quote by Pablo Picasso: 'Every child is an artist, the problem is how to remain an artist once they grow up.'

What personal trait does Jethro attribute to his love for computer science?

Jethro attributes his love for computer science to his curiosity, which he describes as the core of his soul.

What does Jethro mean when he says that everyone is born with something inside them worth pursuing?

Jethro means that every individual has unique talents or passions that are intrinsic to who they are, and these should be nurtured and pursued throughout life.

What is Jethro's second wish for the graduating class?

Jethro's second wish is for the graduates to be open to failure, suggesting that embracing mistakes and learning from them is crucial for personal growth and development.

Why did Jethro's graduation get delayed by a year?

Jethro's graduation was delayed by a year because he stopped in the middle of his course due to the pressure he put on himself to succeed and excel without making mistakes, which led to burnout and resentment.

What lesson did Jethro's parents teach him that he is grateful for?

Jethro is grateful for his parents' lesson of not burdening him with expectations of success, which allowed him the freedom to explore and learn without the fear of failure.

What is Jethro's third wish for the graduating class?

Jethro's third wish is for the graduates to give back to something they care about, emphasizing the importance of contributing positively to society.

How does Jethro view the role of the University of the Philippines in the lives of its students?

Jethro views the University of the Philippines as a unique institution that provides free higher education, making it a place where students are invested in by the people of the Philippines, and thus, they should pay it forward in their future careers.

What does Jethro hope the graduates will remember when they look at their degree?

Jethro hopes that when graduates look at their degree, they will remember the 100 million Filipinos who made their education possible and feel a sense of duty to serve the nation.