Vivek Ramaswamy’s Graduation Speech from 2003 Goes Viral
With recent news of Vivek Ramaswamy joining Donald Trump’s upcoming administration, a video of the biotech entrepreneur’s high school graduation speech has captured social media’s attention. Just days after Trump’s announcement that Ramaswamy would work alongside Elon Musk in a newly-formed government team, viewers are revisiting a nostalgic glimpse of Ramaswamy’s early reflections on life and ambition. The speech, delivered by an 18-year-old Ramaswamy at St. Xavier High School, resonates with audiences nearly two decades later.
Vivek Ramaswamy, 18 years old. his High School Graduation Speech of 2003. pic.twitter.com/sG4kGLbqtL
— Brian Roemmele (@BrianRoemmele) November 13, 2024
“I Wish I Could Have Stopped”
In the resurfaced video, Ramaswamy recounts his high school journey with candor. “I have been racing my entire high school career,” he reflects, adding poignantly, “but now, when we are finally crossing the finish line, I wish I could have stopped, just a little earlier, and catch a breath of the fresh air that has surrounded me the whole time.” These words, spoken in 2003, have struck a chord, reminding viewers of the importance of pausing to savor life’s moments rather than constantly chasing after the next milestone.
Welcoming everyone to the graduation ceremony, Ramaswamy addresses teachers, staff, friends, and classmates before sharing an insightful literary reference from his English studies. Quoting, “It is better to travel than it is to arrive,” he conveys mixed emotions about graduation and the uncertainties that lie ahead. This line, Ramaswamy explains, encapsulates the bittersweet duality of the day, capturing his internal struggle between embracing the moment and anticipating the future.
The Duality of “Commencement”: Ending or Beginning?
Ramaswamy reflects on the deeper meaning behind the word “commencement,” noting its origins in the French word “commencer,” which means “to begin.” He muses aloud, “So, what is it really? The climactic ending to it all, or the launch pad from which we now embark?” This poignant insight illustrates his thoughtful perspective, questioning whether graduation represents an ending or a fresh beginning.
Reflecting on the potential legacy of the “Class of 2003,” Ramaswamy speculates about how his classmates will remember their high school achievements in the years to come. While noting the record number of National Merit finalists, sports triumphs, and state championships, he suggests that these may not be the defining memories for everyone. For him, the true essence of his journey at St. Xavier lay in navigating life as a non-Catholic Hindu in a Catholic environment, from feeling out of place at religious ceremonies to eventually discovering his own personal faith.
As a freshman, Ramaswamy recalls the experience of attending the Mass of the Holy Spirit, a Catholic ceremony where he initially felt like an outsider. Through this experience, he began to forge a unique understanding of faith, distinct from both his Hindu upbringing and the Catholic rituals surrounding him. “It’s this journey of self-discovery,” Ramaswamy shares, “that will likely be the lasting essence of our class.” These words, now reaching a broader audience, continue to inspire, reminding viewers of the universal quest for self-understanding and belonging.
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Very inspirational
Wonderful article and speech as well.