"Beauty comes in different forms. Remember to seek out diversity from its unique perspectives. Nature is naturally diverse and we would do well to respect it."
-BA, '94
"When I graduated, I remember distinctly the feelings of accomplishment and sadness that I would be moving on. I had fun and I got to learn along the way. Be yourself and be you."
-BSW, '99
"Being here today is a huge accomplishment that demonstrates your tenacity, strength, and resilience. Know that you are enough. No matter where you go from here... you are enough. Congratulations and continue to shine bright!"
-BA, BEd, MEd, '90, '95, '99
"Be true to you. In a world of AI and deep fakes, it more important now than ever to be true to you. Stay grounded in your virtues, protect your soul, choose your friends wisely, and just do your best with an open mind, generous heart and a good head on your shoulders."
-BA, '96
"Congratulations on your Convocation 🎓. Well Earned. As you go forward into the world what I wish someone had told me is that you don't have to have it all figured out today. Take that trip. Try that part time job, work that temp job. One step at a time."
-BA, '91
"As you step into the next chapter of your life, remember that you don’t have to have everything figured out. None of us really does. What matters most is that you take the next steps forward with confidence and an open mind."
-BA, '90
"Persistence, Optimism, Cheerfulness, Stay Strong, Engaged, Stay Calm and be patient are the key words to succeed in your future endeavours."
-PhD Biology, '95
"Never give up. No matter what obstacles you may face or people telling you it can't be done, always trust in your power and ability. You are what you think you are. Dream big and chase your stars!"
-PhD English, '95
"Pathways are not always linear. Don’t get discouraged if your aspirations are not in your line of sight, your goal awaits at the turn of the road. Never give up!"
-BA Psychology (Honours), '91
"As you maneuver your way through another part of your journey, remind yourself of the achievements, connections and challenges that have shaped you."
-MEd, '98
"Congratulations Class of 2026! Remember, mediocrity is seldom rewarded but hard-work often is."
-BA Administrative Studies '94
"The working world is a lot about relations with others. Sometimes the chemistry is great; other times, less so. You may be asked to "fit", but that's not the same as belonging. You may face those who wield power, but that's not the same as having authority. Above all, be yourself and stand up for what you believe is right."
-MES Environmental Studies, '95
"Always be proud of your degree accomplishment because this will be your first professional launchpad. You may not get the job you want at first, but trust in the power of your transferable skills and take on other opportunities that would eventually lead you to your desired career path."
-BA Political Science, '97
"Be proud of your curiosity; ask good questions. Unless it's an emergency, don't rush to solve problems until you understand the real issue."
-MES, '93
"Stay curious, keep learning, remain humble, and be willing to help others. Do these consistently, and you will go far."
-BA Economics, '98
"Your path is yours alone. Walk it with confidence, even when the map isn't clear. The unknown is not a threat; it's an invitation to greatness. Stay curious, it let it pull you toward new skills, new people, new ideas and transformative thinking."
-BA Economics, '96
"Congratulations for graduating! Give yourself a pat on the back and be sure to make the most of time, it's all you have, and beware the thieves of time."
-PhD English, '90
"Your most important asset is your reputation. Become the kind of person that others trust and want to work with. Celebrate the success of others and act with integrity. Disagree with grace, and view failures as opportunities to learn and improve."
-MSc, '91
"Congratulations to the Class of 2026. Go out and make a difference, change the world and make it a better place for all."
-PhD Sociology, '99
"Trust in everything you’ve learned at York to get you started in your career… but never stop learning! Listen and learn from everyone you can. And don’t stop reading! Fresh perspectives and learning new tools is key in the entertainment industry."
-BFA Film, '99
"Leverage the critical thinking skills you have developed, stay naturally curious, and be open to adapting in any environment, being comfortable being uncomfortable, so you can continue to grow and be a life long learner."
-BA Economics, '96
"Seize opportunities that come your way, because you never know where they will take you. Continue to hone and use all of those soft skills you have developed. I wish you a happy, healthy path forward."
-BEd, '92
"As you embark on another phase of your life's journey, look ahead with the confidence that what you have achieved through your studies at YorkU is a foundation no one can remove from you. Whatever you do, build on this foundation with compassion, integrity and truth. You will accomplish your dreams."
-BA Liberal Studies, '99
"Congrats on your significant achievement! Other adventures await. For your fulfilling careers, think critically, rely on AI judiciously (use your brain first), balance your opinion with others without succumbing to bureaucracy, understand how things are made and where they come from, and embrace change. Go kick some …. derrière! Happy trails!"
-MES, '90
"Don't just aim to be productive; aim to be impactful. Use your unique voice and your education to solve problems that matter, keeping in mind that the best way to predict the future is to actively help build it."
-BA (Hons) Psychology, '96
"Listen and think 10 times longer than you speak."
-BA (Hons) English, '92
"There are NO barriers! Lots of challenges one step at a time and many paths to follow. Choose wisely!"
-MES, '98
"History has taught you that progress is rarely linear, that resilience often emerges in the face of uncertainty, and that change begins with those willing to question, challenge, and act."
-BA History, '95
"If you do not find a decent job, do not hesitate to have traineeships. Do what you like and like what you do. Love your job with passion and a job that you love."
-MA Economics, '94
"It is a great achievement just to hang in and complete your degree requirements. Well done! Now the real task starts. You may not get the job for which you have the degree, but, do not get discouraged. If you like a company for whom you would like to work for then accept any opportunity they offer. You can progress from there."
-MEd, '99
"My advice: In any job, seek and find the 'job responsibilities' that excite you enough to get you through the tasks that fail to excite you. If more than 50% of the 'job responsibilities' fail to excite you, start seeking another job. And remember: weeks have 168 hours… 40-ish for work, the rest for living!"
-MA Art History, '99
"As you go forward into the world what I wish someone had told me is that you don't have to have it all figured out today. Take that trip. Try that part time job, work that temp job. One step at a time."
-BA, '92
"Whatever you will do, if it is too convenient, it is not good enough. Challenge yourself."
-BA (Hons) Economics, '98
"Measure twice, cut once."
-BAS, '93
"Leave every place better than you found it — workplaces, friendships, communities, and lives."
-BSW, '96
"In our rapidly changing world, never stop being curious and open, while staying true to your core values. Embrace change it is part of the human condition, be open to learning. Live as your authentic self. Enjoy the ride of life and be thankful to all that have helped you on your journey. Make your mark on the world."
-MFA Film Production, '96
"What an exciting time to graduate. There have never been greater opportunities. Set goals so big you think you may never reach them. Don't listen to anyone that says it can't be done. Know yourself, your power comes from within. Be kind to others. Don't be surprised when you surpass your wild dreams coming true."
-BA Psychology, '92
"The biggest achievement in Life is Education. Always Remember that knowledge is power."
-BCom, '98
"As someone who graduated at 53 years old I know how daunting it is to begin life especially at a young age. I knew then for the first time who I was and what my purpose was. It was at that point to make a difference in the lives of others and to become the best person I could be. Reach for the sky however with two feet on the ground. Best of luck ❤"
-BA Women’s Studies, '99
"This is an unprecedented time to be graduating! A world of untapped opportunities facilitated with AI tools that are changing the rules of the game. What a time to seize this moment. Huge congrats and enjoy the ride!"
-iMBA, '95