Last week, I attended MIT's 140th commencement. For me, the last day of classes does not coincide with the last exam but rather the commencement, which truly marks the end of an academic year and to some, the end of an academic career. I was there to catch up with some of my classmates one last time. Moreover, I was also eager to catch a glimpse of what is to come during an MIT commencement when I graduate from the institute next year.

This year, Ben Bernanke, the chairman of the Federal Reserve and MIT alumnus, delivered the keynote address. Spoken like a true economist, the speech was rather dry and mechanic at first but became more inspirational as he links technology (something that MIT is good at) and the economy in the second half of his speech. He charged that the class of 2006 shouldn't be afraid to try something different and be innovative in their work. Afterwards, Susan Hockfield, the president of MIT, delivered the graduate charge to the graduates. A far cry from her speeches at MIT during first year of her tenure as president, she made a very moving, inspirational speech charging the graduates to "inspire your own generation and the generations to come with a renewed sense of possibility and optimism for the future."

After the graduation ceremony, I caught up with some of the graduates and reminisce for one last time before we went on our separate ways. From talking to my classmates, I am really amazed how many of them are leaving for bigger, better things with several people taking up leadership positions after graduation. I am envious of them for graduating; but I am also looking forward to mine next year. I just need to finish that thesis and the coming Fall semester.

Congratulations to all MIT graduates last week, you all look smart in those commencement robes. All the best.

6/12/2006 8:45:34 PM (Eastern Daylight Time, UTC-04:00)

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