Graduate Address: Jon Murad | Harvard Commencement 2013 | Summary and Q&A

Transcript

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Summary

In this video, John Murad, a cop and Harvard graduate, reflects on the expectations placed on Harvard graduates and encourages them to embrace the different paths they may take in life. He emphasizes that success is not solely defined by reaching the top, but by changing the world in meaningful ways. Murad encourages his fellow graduates to consider careers that serve others and make a difference, reminding them that everyone has the power to create ripples of change.

Questions & Answers

Q: Why does John Murad mention wearing a clip-on tie as a cop?

John Murad mentions wearing a clip-on tie as a cop to highlight the practicality and importance of breakaway neckwear in his line of work. It serves as a symbol of the unique challenges and risks that police officers face on a daily basis.

Q: How does John Murad describe the Harvard community?

John Murad describes the Harvard community as a distinguished fellowship comprising accomplished individuals. He mentions that it includes eight US presidents, Nobel Prize winners, Fields Medal winners, Pulitzer Prize winners, and even Oscar winners. He expresses pride in being a part of such a community.

Q: What were John Murad's expectations when he first joined Harvard?

When John Murad first joined Harvard, he believed that greatness was the only acceptable outcome. He admits that if someone had told him back then that he would end up as a cop in the Bronx, he would have been hesitant because Harvard graduates are typically expected to become bankers or entrepreneurs. He reflects on his initial desire for greatness and the pressure he felt to achieve it.

Q: How does John Murad challenge the notion of greatness?

John Murad challenges the notion of greatness by emphasizing that it is not limited to the positions of presidents or esteemed laureates. He asserts that there is equal worth and stature in professions like social work, teaching, soldiering, preaching, nursing, and even police officers. He believes that every individual has the potential to change the world and create ripples of impact.

Q: What does John Murad believe is the secret to changing the world?

According to John Murad, the secret to changing the world lies in taking action. He mentions various examples like becoming a big sister, participating in citizen schools, and volunteering for hospice. He emphasizes that choosing a job that serves others and making a difference in people's lives are meaningful ways to create change. Murad encourages his fellow Harvard graduates to contribute to society in whichever way they can.

Q: How does John Murad describe the significance of the Harvard degree?

John Murad describes the Harvard degree as a mark, comparing it to the letter "A" worn by Hester Prynne in Nathaniel Hawthorne's "The Scarlet Letter." He acknowledges that sometimes graduates may shy away from mentioning Harvard, while other times they may proudly mention it. He notes that the expectations that come with the degree are unique to each individual, and it is up to them to determine the impact they want to make in the world.

Q: What does John Murad suggest about how to create change in the world?

John Murad suggests that everyone has the power to create change in the world. He believes that it is not about reaching the top or achieving grandiose success, but about the manner in which change is accomplished. Murad encourages his audience to serve others, take on roles that contribute to society, and make a positive impact in any way possible.

Q: What does John Murad imply about the importance of individuals in non-history-making roles?

John Murad implies that individuals in non-history-making roles are just as significant as those who are well-known. He believes that the distinguished fellowship of Harvard is incomplete without recognizing and valuing the contributions of people whose paths may not be written in history books. These individuals play critical roles in society and have the power to make a difference in their own unique ways.

Q: What is John Murad's main message to his fellow Harvard graduates?

John Murad's main message to his fellow Harvard graduates is to embrace the different paths they may take in life. He urges them to recognize that success is not solely defined by reaching the top, but by changing the world and making a meaningful impact. Murad encourages his fellow graduates to use their education and privilege to serve others and contribute to the betterment of society.

Q: How does John Murad conclude his speech?

John Murad concludes his speech by expressing his commitment to serving as a cop in the Bronx and making his corner of the city a safer and fairer place. He acknowledges that while he may not be the only cop with two Harvard degrees, his choice of profession is uncommon, but not something to boast about. Murad encourages his fellow graduates to choose their own paths and serve in various roles, while reminding them of the privilege they have attained through their Harvard education.

Takeaways

John Murad's speech reminds Harvard graduates that success should not be confined to traditional definitions of greatness. He urges them to embrace their unique paths and use their education to make a positive impact in the world, regardless of the nature of their chosen careers. Murad challenges the belief that reaching the top is the ultimate goal, emphasizing that the true measure of success lies in how each individual creates ripples of change. By encouraging his fellow graduates to serve others and contribute to society, Murad highlights the transformative power of service and the importance of using one's privilege to benefit others.