Speakers at the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences master’s and doctoral program commencement took inspiration from Forrest Gump, cultural theorist Stuart Hall and even Dos Equis “Most Interesting Man in the World” to give graduates parting words of wisdom in the Smith Center Friday morning.

The graduates celebrated receiving their degrees by crossing the stage with their babies in tow or by taking selfies.

Here’s what the speakers had to say:

1. The key to success is preparation

Christopher Carrigan, an associate professor of public policy and public administration, admitted to the graduates that his career path has been a “winding one,” as he has done just about everything from professional consulting to playing minor league baseball.

He said that while some may criticize his career choices, one benefit has been finding success in different careers.

The one thing Carrigan said what he has found consistent across all fields is that the key to success is preparation.

“Rarely have a seen a person flourish based on their natural ability alone.” he said.

2. Be like Forrest Gump

Carrigan told graduates that he once told a close friend he wanted to be more like Forrest Gump. Carrigan said he didn’t mean he wanted to be a ping pong player or a war hero, but that he admired Gump’s work ethic.

“I told my friend that I wanted to be more like Forrest Gump, because he is wildly successful simply by taking advantage of the opportunities given to him.” he said.

Work ethic like Gump’s will give students confidence that they will achieve success, because they know they will do everything in their power to achieve their goals, Carrigan said.

3. Follow your heart and take lessons with you

Amanda Figueroa, a student speaker who graduated with a master’s in American Studies, drew inspiration from a quote by cultural theorist Stuart Hall. “It’s worth remembering that all discourse is placed and the heart has its reasons,” Hall once said.

Figueroa said when she heard this quote for the first time, it confirmed her plan to follow her heart by pursuing a master’s degree at GW. She reminded her fellow graduates that no matter where they may go, they can learn from the places they’ve been and can carry lessons with them.

4. Stay thirsty

Vinson reminded the graduates that they have been exposed to a breadth of opportunities while at GW, and they are more prepared for what lies ahead than ever before.

He left students with one main piece of advice: Stay inquisitive and stay thirsty. After pausing for a quick chuckle the dean quoted Dos Equis “Most Interesting Man in the World” by telling the graduates, “Stay thirsty, my friends.”

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