Graduation may seem like a lifetime away, but it will be here before you know it. With the 2017 Commencement Ceremony slowly approaching, seniors have the opportunity to fill out applications to enter into consideration for being the 2017 class speaker. Candidates must submit their application to the Student Activities Center no later than 3:23 p.m. on Wednesday, March 8.
The requirements for the speaker are as follows: you must be a graduating senior in 2017; have the ability to effectively convey educational and other relevant experience both in writing and verbally; and have the ability to speak to a very large group of individuals. The final product will be presented in front of the graduating class and their families on Sunday, May 28 during the graduation ceremony.
“I think it is a great opportunity for my peers to speak on behalf of the class of 2017. I’m excited to hear what people have to say about their past four years at Niles West, considering that everyone has a different high school experience, though we all go to the same school and are surrounded by the same people,” senior Bethany Keith said.
The Graduation Speaker Selection Committee will decide on which applicants to interview during a period of consideration between March 8 to 13. Those who are chosen will be interviewed throughout the week of March 20-24 by preparing and reciting a 90-second sample of their proposed speech.
If students are chosen as a top candidate after this process, the senior class will vote on April 6; this will be based off a two-minute sample of your speech. Votes will be tallied promptly after, and the speaker will be announced on April 7.
The application consists of four questions centered around the applicant’s involvement and influence at Niles West.
“I’ve decided to fill out an application primarily because I want to represent the class in a positive way and capture the essence of the Niles West experience as something our class can look back on in the future,” candidate and senior Zeeshan Khan said.
Student activities director Katie Odell urges students to be creative and to give the application a shot. Being the class speaker is not only a huge honor, but it also give students an opportunity to leave an impact on all of their peers.
“Be unique. Give a message that will stand out. Don’t be nervous, and speak from the heart,” Odell said.
If you feel that you can best represent your graduating class, make sure to take a look at this application.
