21 Words for the Class of 2021
This spring, we asked members of the Northwestern community to share words of advice with the Class of 2021. We received an overwhelming amount of submissions! Here are just a few of the messages for the newest Northwestern graduates.
“If you find yourself in a situation in which no one is in charge, then you are. Lead by example.” —Robert Begtrup ’63
“Attitude is the secret of happiness. All of our dramas eventually recede into the overview. Choose to be optimistic and resilient.” —Marcy Brown ’66
“Be positive! Expend your energy on who and what matters! Continue to learn! Have some down time to reflect and renew.” —Judy Bendoff ’66
“Whatever profession or field you enter keep diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice at the forefront of your work and life.” —Margaret Ayres Smith ’69
“Never be reluctant to ask for help.
A true mentor has a vested interest in your success and must have a vested interest in your failures.
Never build a flat roof.” —Dr. Leo Gordon ’73 MD
“Enjoy, your adult life has just begun. Listen, you may hear great advice.
Praise others, we all need it.
Work hard.” —Barbara McFarland ’76
“You owe others far more than you realize. Pay it forward. Share. Give more than you get. Be kind. Take care.” —Mark Alderfer ’77
“You just had the best four years of your life. Now you will spend the rest trying to get it back.” —Linda Neuberger ’82
“Voices are never heard by those with closed minds. Open your own first. The best leaders listen louder than they speak.” —Michael Watson ’84
“You've just built some of the most meaningful friendships in your entire life at NU. Continue to treasure and maintain them.” —Eva Casamento ’87
“Northwestern education gives a fantastic edge, but you have to apply yourself, show up, be creative and you will have an impact.” —Keith Donaldson ’93
“Be courageous. Speak out for what you know is true based on data and facts. Do not let others silence you.” —Kathryn Zwack ’95 MBA
“A candle loses nothing by lighting another. (Italian proverb) Go out and share your light with others—congratulations and Go 'Cats!” —Timothy Mah ’98
“Practice and prioritize your self-development. Knowing how to change yourself will help you become an agent of change to others.” —Sachin Garg ’98
“I know people say it all the time, but I really mean it- every rough patch you encounter will set you up for success down the road. You will eventually look back on those moments of turbulence in your life and be proud that you persevered through it all!” —Luis Espinoza ’11
“It’s never wrong to do the right thing. Even if nobody else knows as that is the true test of integrity.” —Kelly Kam (’24 P)