In his commencement speech at the University of Washington’s Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy shared some valuable advice for graduates based on his own experiences. He emphasized the significance of the accomplishment of graduating from one of the best engineering schools in the world, highlighting the importance of appreciating this achievement. Jassy encouraged graduates to be open to the unpredictable twists and turns of life, noting that it is okay not to have everything figured out at a young age. He encouraged them to explore different opportunities and be willing to adapt to changing interests over time.
Jassy reflected on his own career journey, sharing that he pursued a variety of jobs before finding his true calling. He emphasized the importance of not letting others define who you are and encouraged graduates to take risks and put themselves out there, even if it means facing failure. He stressed the value of being a lifelong learner, continuously seeking opportunities for growth and improvement. Jassy also highlighted the significance of attitude in achieving success, noting that a positive mindset, hard work, and a commitment to excellence are essential traits.
The Amazon CEO shared personal anecdotes about his early career aspirations, including his dream of becoming a famous sportscaster, and the rejection he faced along the way. He spoke about the societal pressure to work fewer hours and the importance of embracing hard work in order to excel in any field. Jassy reminded graduates that their journey is just beginning and that they have many options ahead of them. He encouraged them to be curious, experimental, and to control what they can in order to write their own story.
Jassy also discussed the importance of facing challenges head-on and learning from failures. He shared his own experiences of overcoming obstacles and setbacks, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and resilience in achieving success. He advised graduates to be kind to themselves when things don’t go as planned and to remember that they have the power to shape their own destinies. Jassy wished the 2024 graduates the best of luck on their future endeavors, reminding them that life is an adventure full of opportunities waiting to be explored.
In conclusion, Andy Jassy’s commencement speech offered valuable insights and advice for graduates as they navigate the complexities of life and work. He emphasized the importance of appreciating one’s accomplishments, being open to new experiences, and maintaining a positive attitude in the face of challenges. Jassy’s personal anecdotes and reflections served as a source of inspiration and motivation for the graduating class, encouraging them to embrace the unknown and pursue their passions with determination and resilience. His message of self-empowerment and lifelong learning resonated with the audience, reminding them that they have the power to shape their own destinies and write their own stories.
