The University recently introduced student orators at graduation ceremonies who speak on behalf of the graduating cohort. Student Orator is the name given to the graduate who makes the closing speech at their graduation ceremony on behalf of the cohort of students. Student Orators are being piloted at the winter graduation ceremonies and applications are now open to be Student Orator for the ceremonies on the following dates: Wednesday 23 November 2022 at 3pm Thursday 24 November 2022 at 3pm Friday 25 November 2022 at 3pm Saturday 26 November 2022 at 3pm Tuesday 29 November 2022 at 11am Tuesday 29 November 2022 at 3pm If you are chosen as a Student Orator, you'll provide an invaluable contribution to the day. You'll help to make it unique and memorable for everyone there. It will be an unforgettable experience for you - and one which will enhance your CV. Student Orators will be awarded a certificate in recognition of their contribution. A £60 complimentary photography package with our official photographer. A complimentary video recording of the ceremony presented on a USB. Your guests will also be allocated reserved seating on the ground floor of McEwan Hall. You and a guest will be invited to a graduation dinner at Old College. How to apply We welcome applications from students attending the Winter 2022 ceremonies on the dates listed above. Academic performance is not taken into account. Where there is more than one School included within a ceremony, one orator speaks on behalf of the graduating cohort. Applications should include an abstract of the speech you would give at your relevant graduation ceremony. The deadline for applications has been extended to Monday 7 November. Guidance on speeches Your speech should last for about five minutes and it should be positive and uplifting. It should be between 500 - 700 words. Reflect on your time at University, and talk about the graduation day and hopes for the future. You can mention how University life has benefitted you as a person, and students generally. You can include anecdotes of your time at University. Just be sure that the story is meaningful to the whole cohort, and suitable for the audience. There'll be senior members of the University there, and many parents. It is fine to acknowledge the support given by family and friends, but don't include personal thanks, and don't mention anyone by name. Apply to be a student orator After you apply After the closing date for applications, the applications will be reviewed and one orator will be selected for each relevant ceremony. You will be notified by Thursday 10th November whether your application has been successful. If your application is successful you will be provided with support to help develop your speech and you will also be invited to attend a rehearsal where you will be asked to read your speech in the McEwan Hall ahead of the ceremony to familiarise yourself with the venue and complete a sound check. This article was published on 2024-07-29
