Graduation Speech Submission (Unselected)
Friends, family, and fellow graduates—
Although I was not selected as the student speaker for Trident University’s 2025 Commencement, I still want to share the heart of the speech I submitted. Because this journey—my journey—is one I carry with pride and purpose.
As an immigrant who has known the sting of displacement, the pressure to succeed, and the drive to rise above systemic barriers, I dreamed of standing before my class to remind us all of how far we’ve come.
“No matter your accent, your zip code, your color, or your name—your presence in this academic space is valid and powerful.”
I’ve pursued multiple degrees, served vulnerable populations, and used my voice to advocate for justice in public health. But I’ve never walked this road alone. I stand on the shoulders of ancestors, mentors, and everyday heroes who lifted me.
Though I won’t deliver this speech on stage, I share it here with pride. Because every immigrant student, first-generation scholar, or overlooked voice deserves to be heard—if not from a podium, then from platforms like this.
We are graduating. And we are not done.
Today, I want to share something personal.
I was not selected to be the student speaker for Trident University’s 2025 Commencement Ceremony. It was disappointing, yes—but it also gave me a deeper appreciation for the power of my own voice.
As an immigrant and public health scholar, my speech reflected a journey shaped by resilience, community, and service. It celebrated not just achievement, but the dignity of every student who overcomes adversity to succeed in spaces that weren’t designed with us in mind.
“We are not defined by where we began but by the direction we push forward—armed with education, fueled by purpose.”
I wrote to honor the unseen struggles and silent victories of working parents, first-gen students, and immigrant learners. I may not have had the microphone, but I do have this platform—and I’ll keep using it to uplift, advocate, and inspire.
To my fellow graduates: You matter. Your story matters. Let’s keep moving forward.
Dr. Samuel Saye Poquee Quoi, PhD, MPH, MHS, BSc
Public Health Advocate | Immigrant Scholar | Author
