In his 2024 commencement speech at Harvey Mudd, Grant Sanderson challenges the conventional wisdom of 'follow your dreams,' emphasizing the importance of adding value to others, recognizing the role of luck and timing, and remaining adaptable in a changing world.
In a thought-provoking commencement speech delivered at Harvey Mudd College in 2024, Grant Sanderson, known for his engaging mathematics videos, addressed the graduating class with a fresh perspective on the often-repeated advice to "follow your dreams." While acknowledging the truth behind this cliché, Sanderson urged graduates to consider a more nuanced approach that emphasizes adding value to others and adapting to an ever-changing world.
Sanderson was invited back to speak after his previous lecture on the intersections of mathematics and physics had resonated deeply with students. He began by expressing gratitude for the opportunity to address the class of 2024, reflecting on the bright future he sees in their hands.
Sanderson opened his speech by acknowledging the common advice to follow one's dreams, stating that while there is merit to this notion, it is not sufficient on its own. He pointed out that not everyone has a clear passion or dream waiting to be pursued, and even those who do may not fully understand how to translate that passion into a viable career.
He emphasized a critical transition that occurs after college: the shift from personal growth to adding value to others. In school, the focus is on learning and self-improvement, but in the professional world, success is often measured by how effectively one can contribute to the needs of others. Sanderson illustrated this point through a comparison of two music students, Paganini and Taylor, highlighting how technical excellence does not always equate to career success. Instead, the ability to resonate with and serve an audience is paramount.
One of the key insights Sanderson shared was the idea that action precedes motivation. He recounted his own journey, where his love for teaching and creating videos developed only after he began engaging in those activities. This suggests that rather than waiting for passion to strike, graduates should seek opportunities that align their skills with the needs of others, allowing passion to emerge organically.
Sanderson also addressed the role of luck in career success, cautioning against the survivorship bias inherent in the "follow your dreams" narrative. He noted that many successful individuals are often those who were in the right place at the right time, and he encouraged graduates to consider what opportunities exist now that may not have been available in the past or may become saturated in the future.
Another important aspect Sanderson highlighted was the influence individuals can have on others. He shared a story about Talithia Williams, a mathematician who was encouraged by a teacher to pursue math, illustrating how a single comment can set off a chain reaction leading to significant career choices. He urged graduates to recognize their potential to inspire and shape the dreams of those who come after them.
Sanderson concluded his speech by emphasizing the importance of adaptability in a rapidly changing world. He reminded graduates that their values and goals may evolve over time, and that remaining flexible will allow them to seize new opportunities as they arise. He encouraged them to view passion not as a fixed destination but as a guiding force that can change direction based on external influences.
In closing, Sanderson expressed confidence in the graduating class, urging them to focus on adding value to others, to recognize the power of their actions, and to remain open to change. He left them with a call to action: to treat their passions as fuel for their journeys, rather than rigid endpoints.
As the class of 2024 embarks on their next chapter, Sanderson's insights serve as a reminder that success is not solely about following dreams but about navigating the complexities of life with purpose, adaptability, and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world around them.
