Taylor Swift gives NYU commencement speech after accepting honorary degree

Summary

Taylor Swift delivers an inspiring commencement speech at NYU, where she is honored with a Doctor of Fine Arts degree. She reflects on the support systems that shape us, the importance of letting go of grudges, and the inevitability of making mistakes. Swift encourages graduates to embrace their unique paths, learn from failures, and trust their instincts as they navigate life after college.

Takeaways

• 🎓 Taylor Swift was awarded an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts degree from NYU for her talent, advocacy, and support for artists.
• 🙌 She expressed gratitude to NYU's leadership and her fellow honorees, acknowledging their contributions to the world.
• 🤝 Swift emphasized the collective effort behind individual success, highlighting the importance of support from loved ones and mentors.
• 🌟 She shared her personal journey, from performing in coffee houses to international stardom, and the sacrifices made by her family.
• 🏛 Reflecting on the unique college experiences of NYU's class of 2022 during the pandemic, she acknowledged their resilience.
• 💡 Swift advised graduates to embrace life's unpredictability, as she did not have a 'normal' college experience but still found success.
• 🌈 She encouraged graduates to let go of grudges and focus on the positive aspects of life, as carrying negativity can be burdensome.
• 😅 Taylor discussed the inevitability of 'cringe' moments and the importance of not being ashamed of trying and making mistakes.
• 📝 She highlighted the power of writing and creativity in her life, suggesting that everyone is a writer in their own way.
• 🔄 Swift shared her philosophy that mistakes and failures can lead to personal growth and the best outcomes in life.
• 🌟 She concluded with a message of hope and resilience, encouraging graduates to trust their instincts and embrace life's challenges.

Q & A

What honor did Taylor Swift receive from NYU?

Taylor Swift was conferred the degree of Doctor of Fine Arts, honoris causa, by NYU.

Who are the other honorees mentioned by Taylor Swift in her speech?

The other honorees Taylor Swift mentioned are Susan Hockfield and Felix Matos Rodriguez.

What is Taylor Swift's humorous reason for being chosen as an honorary doctor?

Taylor Swift humorously suggests that the main reason she is being honored is because she has a song called '22'.

How does Taylor Swift describe her outfit for the commencement speech compared to her usual performances?

Taylor Swift describes her outfit as much more comfortable than the glittery leotard and heels she usually wears during performances.

What did Taylor Swift imagine about her college experience as a child?

As a child, Taylor Swift imagined hanging posters on the wall of her freshman dorm and having a romantic encounter on a college campus, which she depicted in her music video for 'Love Story'.

How did Taylor Swift's actual college experience differ from her initial expectations?

Taylor Swift's actual college experience was not traditional; she finished high school through homeschooling and did not attend college in the usual sense.

What challenges did NYU students face during their college years according to Taylor Swift's speech?

NYU students faced the challenges of attending college during a global pandemic, which included being locked in dorms and attending classes over Zoom, as well as taking numerous COVID-19 tests.

What life advice does Taylor Swift give about carrying emotional baggage?

Taylor Swift advises to know what to keep and what to release in life, suggesting that one should not carry all grudges and burdens but instead let go of things that weigh them down.

How does Taylor Swift view the concept of 'cringe' and its role in life?

Taylor Swift views 'cringe' as unavoidable and suggests that people should not try to avoid it, but instead embrace it as a part of life's journey.

What does Taylor Swift encourage graduates to do with their enthusiasm and eagerness?

Taylor Swift encourages graduates not to be ashamed of their enthusiasm and eagerness, arguing that effortlessness is a myth and that those who want it the most are the ones she hires for her company.

How does Taylor Swift describe the role of writing in her life and career?

Taylor Swift describes writing as the compass that has guided her life and career, with everything she does being an extension of her love for the craft and the process of creating.