Advice for the Journey Ahead, From Alumni

Two people in graduation robes opening letters

This is a summary of a story by Adriana V. Difranco on MADE FOR THIS .

Several hundred alumni wrote notes of advice for graduating students to symbolically welcome them to the Duke alumni family. The newest graduates brought the total number of Duke alumni to more than 212,000 worldwide.  

Here are a few sentiments they shared with the Class of 2026: 

“Don’t let the world dim your fire and passion. You can change the world in whatever way you want.” – Christina Travers ’01

“Keep going! Small setbacks are just stepping stones to your next assignment.”  – Khadijia Tribie Reid ’96

“I’m proud of you. Take a moment to honor your work. You are enough. You are special just the way you are. Congratulations! – Jim Sink ’00 

My biggest advice is not to just take the safe path. Challenge your own thinking about what you want to do and who you want to be.  Don’t let fear guide your decisions. You have the world at your fingertips. Take full advantage!” – Rich Herbst ’88

“You are embarking on your next Duke adventure! There are 200K alumni everywhere who want to meet you and help you out.” – Reid Lewis ’84

To watch the video and read other advice from alumni, go to MADE FOR THIS.