Harvard Orator: Damilare Sonoiki | Harvard Commencement 2013 | Summary and Q&A

Transcript

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Summary

In this speech, the speaker reflects on his time at Harvard and the concept of "eventually." He talks about his experiences and the realization that life is unpredictable and "eventually" is not guaranteed. He encourages the audience to stop waiting for the perfect time and start pursuing their dreams and passions today.

Questions & Answers

Q: Who is the speaker of the speech?

The speaker is Dom Ilaria Sanuki, a class marshal and Harvard student.

Q: What are some of the things the speaker is known for?

The speaker is known as a filmmaker, president of the Harvard black men's forum, writer for the Lampoon, and CEO of a recording label.

Q: Where did the speaker grow up?

The speaker grew up in southwest Houston.

Q: What was the speaker's experience when he first arrived at Harvard?

The speaker felt a shock of transitioning from being a top student in high school to being surrounded by many other talented individuals at Harvard.

Q: Why did the speaker decide to attend Harvard?

The speaker decided to attend Harvard after attending a Borean school in Virginia through the "a better chance" program.

Q: What were some items on the speaker's Harvard bucket list?

Some items on the speaker's Harvard bucket list were running primal scream, peeing on a John Harvard statue, and attending Reverend Gomes's sermons and afternoon teas.

Q: Did the speaker fulfill everything on his Harvard bucket list?

No, the speaker didn't fulfill everything on his Harvard bucket list, specifically attending Reverend Gomes's sermons and afternoon teas.

Q: Why did the speaker promise himself to attend Reverend Gomes's sermons and afternoon teas?

The speaker promised himself to attend Reverend Gomes's events because they were recommended by many people as a significant part of the Harvard experience.

Q: What happened to Reverend Gomes before the speaker could fulfill his promise?

Reverend Gomes suffered a stroke and passed away before the speaker had a chance to attend his events.

Q: How did the speaker react to Reverend Gomes's passing?

The speaker felt a sense of urgency and regret for not attending Reverend Gomes's events before he passed away.

Takeaways

The speaker emphasizes the importance of not waiting for "eventually" and pursuing one's passions and dreams today. He shares personal experiences of violence and reminds the audience that life is unpredictable and time is limited. The speech encourages listeners to avoid getting caught up in comfortable two-year programs and to strive for happiness, purpose, excitement, and making a positive impact.