হার্বার্ড বিশ্ববিদ্যালয়ের এক শিক্ষার্থী দেওয়া শিহরণ জাগানো বক্তব্য।

Summary

In this powerful speech, the speaker reflects on the transformative journey from growing up in Nebraska as the daughter of South Asian immigrants to graduating from Harvard. Emphasizing the value of 'not knowing,' the speaker explores how uncertainty has been a driving force for growth and learning. From facing adversity and societal challenges to embracing empathy and humility, the message highlights the importance of leaning into discomfort, asking questions, and recognizing the humanity in others. Ultimately, it’s the moments of uncertainty that shape us and propel us forward.

Takeaways

• 😀 The power of 'not knowing' can be empowering and lead to growth.
• 😀 The speaker reflects on how uncertainty and not knowing have shaped their journey from Nebraska to Harvard.
• 😀 As the first in their family to attend college, the speaker initially struggled with not having the answers but found strength in embracing it.
• 😀 In the history of science, learning often comes from exploring what is missing or unknown, emphasizing the importance of what we don't know.
• 😀 Moments of uncertainty, like those experienced during their time at Harvard, have often led to valuable lessons and personal growth.
• 😀 The class of 2024 at Harvard faced numerous challenges, including changes in reproductive healthcare access and the reversal of affirmative action.
• 😀 In their senior year, the speaker and other students of color faced targeted actions that highlighted issues around freedom of speech and safety.
• 😀 The speaker expresses deep disappointment at the intolerance for civil disobedience on campus, especially in the context of free speech and democratic principles.
• 😀 The speaker urges the community to embrace empathy, humility, and a willingness to learn, even if we don’t understand someone else's experience.
• 😀 Solidarity is not about knowing all the answers but about being willing to listen, learn, and engage with others' humanity, especially in times of division and conflict.
• 😀 The speaker emphasizes that the power of not knowing is essential for creating space for genuine learning, connection, and personal development in the face of uncertainty.

Q & A

What is the central theme of the speaker's message?

The central theme of the speaker's message is the power and importance of 'not knowing.' The speaker emphasizes how embracing uncertainty can lead to empathy, growth, and meaningful learning experiences, especially in times of division and conflict.

How does the speaker describe their background and journey to Harvard?

The speaker describes growing up in the great plains of Nebraska as the eldest daughter of South Asian immigrants. They were the first in their family to attend college in the U.S., navigating the application process with little guidance from their parents, who also did not know how to apply.

How does the speaker redefine the concept of 'not knowing'?

The speaker redefines 'not knowing' as a source of empowerment rather than weakness. They highlight how not knowing opens up space for learning, humility, and curiosity, especially when navigating unfamiliar or challenging situations.

What does the speaker learn from their professor of color in the history of science?

The speaker learns that history is not only about the stories we know but also about what is missing from the historical narrative. They realize that silence in history is often loud and that looking for missing voices and perspectives is key to understanding the full picture.

What major societal issues does the speaker mention during their time at Harvard?

The speaker mentions several societal issues faced during their time at Harvard, including the overturning of Roe v. Wade, the reversal of affirmative action, and the challenges faced by students of color, including doxing and threats to freedom of speech.

How does the speaker reflect on the importance of solidarity in moments of division?

The speaker reflects on how solidarity does not depend on knowing everything about a situation. They emphasize that 'not knowing' allows for empathy and humility, fostering the ability to connect with others in meaningful ways, even when there are deep disagreements or misunderstandings.

What does the speaker encourage their peers to do in moments of uncertainty?

In moments of uncertainty, the speaker encourages their peers to lean into discomfort, engage with the complexities of situations, and maintain a 'beginner’s mind'—an openness to learning and understanding, even when they do not have all the answers.

How does the speaker address the challenges faced by the class of 2024 at Harvard?

The speaker highlights the challenges faced by the class of 2024, including navigating uncertain social and political environments, dealing with the emotional and safety impacts of being targeted for their identities, and the restrictions on freedom of speech and expression at Harvard.

What role does uncertainty play in the speaker's narrative?

Uncertainty is central to the speaker's narrative. They argue that it is through embracing uncertainty that individuals grow, learn, and connect with others. The speaker suggests that uncertainty, while uncomfortable, is essential for creating deeper understanding and fostering change.

What is the significance of Emily Dickinson's quote at the end of the speech?

The Emily Dickinson quote, 'Not knowing when the dawn will come, I open every door,' encapsulates the speaker's message about embracing uncertainty. It suggests that even in the face of not knowing, one should remain open to possibilities, allowing for growth and discovery in unexpected ways.