As many of us have graduated or are soon to graduate, it is important to sit back and reflect on the variety of choices that we have made and the futures that we have chosen to pursue. As we graduate high school, many of us, with the advice of parents, counselors, friends etc. have begun to make choices which will define us and our destinies. Some of us, like me, have chosen to further our education through becoming college students.

There are a variety of college options including two and four year institutions. There are a variety of majors which lead individuals to a plethora of career paths. Others have chosen to become students at technical and trade schools, which will allow them to learn needed skills that we need in our workforce. Yet others have chosen to serve our country in the United States Armed Forces and defend the rights and liberties that we cherish. Finally, some chose to enter directly into the workforce and to find their place in this world.

Regardless of our chosen path, we have needed to search within ourselves to discover the people that we want to be. This is often not easy; it requires deep introspection. While we can be guided by others, in the end it is our life that is fundamentally affected, thus only we can make that choice.

Making these choices has not been easy. There have been a variety of obstacles thrown into our paths. Among these obstacles are parental disapproval, financial concerns and perhaps having to leave family and friends behind. This is a tremendous undertaking. No longer are we guaranteed adequate sustenance, we have to find a way to provide for ourselves. This can put a significant amount of stress on us, yet after careful consideration and deliberation, we have made the choices that will impact the rest of our lives.

Going into the future, whatever path that you have chosen, do not forget yourself, your values and who you are. Keep an open heart and an open mind. Show others kindness and fight for a world that will have less discrimination and hatred. Fight for a more just society without arbitrary barriers. Stand up for a society where we look out for the less fortunate and help people to achieve their highest aspirations without regard to social and economic status. With each generation, our society has evolved to become increasingly accepting of diversity and conscious of the struggles of others. Let our generation and the Class of 2016 do our part to be productive members of society and to help create a world that we can proud of. We can help lead the charge for change and reform to be part of a better world. Do not be silent or let others silent you. Each of you has your own talent and skill to contribute to the world. Thus, in summary, I wish the Class of 2016 the best of luck as we head into the world and discover the people we are meant to be. I urge each of you to raise your voice for change to help create a better world in the process.