WASHINGTON 17 MAY 2015. Apple CEO Tim Cook gave commencement speech to 2015 graduating class of George Washington University: “Someone has to Change the World — it might as well be You.”
The Sidelines are NOT where You want to Live your Life. The World needs you in the Arena.”
Cook started his speech with humor: “Please silence your cellphones before getting into the speech. For those of you with an iPhone, just place it in silent mode,” he said “If you don’t have an iPhone, please pass it to the center aisle. Apple has a world-class recycling program.”
Graduates, Your Values Matter. They are your North Star. This is the one thing I’d like to bring to you all the way from Cupertino, California: the idea that great progress is possible, whatever line of work you choose.”
Tim Cook challenged graduates to make a difference:
“There are problems that need to be solved, injustices that need to be ended, people that are still being persecuted, diseases still in need of cure,” said Cook, “No matter what you do next, the world needs your energy, your passion, your impatience with progress. History rarely yields to one person, but think and never forget what happens when it does. That can be you. That should be you. That must be you.”
He recalled his first meetings with the Steve Jobs in 1997, and how they changed his life.
“In 1997 and 1998, Apple had been adrift for years, but Steve thought it could be great again,” Cook said. “His vision for Apple was a company that turned powerful technology into tools that would help change the world for the better.”
“The process of discovering yourself, of inventing yourself or reinventing yourself, is about to begin in earnest,” he said. “Work takes on new meaning when you feel you’re pointed in the right direction—otherwise, it’s just a job. And life is too short for that. We need the best and brightest of your generation to lead. You don’t have to choose between doing good and doing well. Find your North Star, let it guide you in life and work and in your life’s work.”
Cook ended his address by taking a Photo of the graduating class with his iPhone.
