I woke up this morning to the news that we had lost one of our generation’s most influential innovators, Steve Jobs.  As I read through a few of the articles posted in regards to his passing, I came across one of his motivational speeches- in my opinion, his most life-changing motivational speeches. As I watched this YouTube video of his 2005 Stanford University Graduation Speech (PLEASE watch at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hd_ptbiPoXM&feature=player_embedded#!), I realized how much of an influence this speech could be for our current, as well as our incoming students.

In his speech he addresses the most pivotal points that shaped his career and personal life. He also discusses the importance of finding your passions, which we convey to students that their major of choice should reflect. To look at your education, not as a task, but as a path to teach you the tools to get where you want to be…wherever that is. Take tools from your everyday learning and apply them to how they can help move you forward towards YOUR goals. As Steve mentions, you will learn to connect your dots.

I cannot tell you how often I hear the question “What if I don’t know my major or what I want to do?” My answer is open ended. Explore. But don’t waste your exploration either. Take a look at what jobs intrigue your interest. Then look at what educational experiences can help you get there.  I say experiences because you do want to make every class you take work for your goals. In the video, Steve addresses how he related his education to his goal…and look where that took him! Education is in basic terms exactly that, to learn about something-or everything. Now that you are headed into college, the fun part is to find your passion…and pursue it. Connect with your teachers and build your networks. This opens future doors, and to connect with those doing the job is priceless.

Now, one thing you will learn from this speech (if you didn’t already know) is that Steve Jobs dropped out of college. What he does talk about is how he “dropped in” to learn about subjects that interested him. He used his educational experiences to refine his product empire. One major point I need to make is that there are a few human beings that have become extremely successful without going to college. But hey, if it didn’t happen to me- and trust me I begged for the opportunity to be “naturally genius”- then most likely you are like the rest of us, and need some fine-tuning when it comes to learning what will help you succeed.

Keep in mind that everybody’s passion is different. Everyone’s success is self-measured. So, take the time to explore yours. You never know, you could be the one who changes our future, so don’t live someone else’s life…create YOURS!