Spring 2023 Student Commencement Speaker - Kelsey O'Connor

Kelsey O’Connor, Bachelor of Social Work, addressed fellow spring graduates at the University Commencement ceremony on May 6, 2023.

[@Mdawgbboy]

“I encourage everyone to think and do and become something uniquely amazing” - Kelsey O’Connor Be kind. Adventurous. Caring. Ambitious. Look beyond the labels of what you do and instead focus on the person you want to be. That is who you truly are. Beautiful speech, Kelsey! Thank you!

[@joshuaboyle7585]

Kelsea, there was so much deep and beautiful truth in your words. That is one of the best things I have heard in a long time. I was moved to tears. Thank you.

[@mashinka181979]

Kelsey, the wisdom you demonstrate and share in this speech is unfortunately very unusual, even in people 3 times your age, from my experience. Thank you for sharing your hard-won pearls of wisdom and good luck to you in life. “Even when the winds assail you, and you’re lost out on uncharted seas, the compass of your heart won’t fail you now - your vessel’s made for times like these.” - Eliza Gilkyson

[@bourgiebaglady2241]

Outstanding! This woman really grew and learned. That’s what it’s about.

[@faridmuti228]

Thank you President of nc state university for your leadership

[@MarionThomas17]

As a practising social worker in South Africa, this speech was so relatable on so many levels. Thank you, Kelsey for inspirational words. It brought tears to my eyes and touched me more than you will know. ❤

[@nspatni]

One of the most inspiring and beautiful speeches I have heard.

[@yenjai]

She is learning and practicing to describe people by their attitudes, the way that they treat others, and what makes them uniquely beautiful She described her roommate as a kind, intelligent, adventurous girl who loves her family deeply She described others by their internal characteristics. She suggested to choose positive attitude (optimistic), treat others with genuine kindness and appreciate your own unique inner beauty She suggested to appreciate who you are and appreciate others who they really are She suggested to think, and do, and become something uniquely amazing. Kelsey O’Conner Commencement speech 2023 NC state

[@jenniferfratangelo5239]

Bravo Kelsy!!! Thank you for sharing your strength and vision with us. 🙏🏼🩷

[@micahsun2316]

Watching this in Taiwan, very motivating.

[@micahsun2316]

I am who I am, a human being

[@overatlast]

❤