Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service

Lesson 1: Do what is ethical, not just what is legal. When you are faced with difficult decisions, you will know that ‘the right thing to do’ is the right thing to do. Do it.

Lesson 2: Take risks and seek new experiences. Nothing worth having in life comes without the risk of failure. Don’t be afraid to fail.

Lesson 3: Don’t focus on the externals. Georgetown University has given you a tremendous start in life, but it is only a start. Do not lose your sense of curiosity and quest for improvement.

Lesson 4: Give something back. Patriotism and service are old fashioned values, but they never outlive their time.

Lesson 5: Remember what really matters. Every graduate today is here because family, friends and professors helped them get here. Let these special people know how you feel about them.

For the full text of the Senator’s prepared remarks, or video from the ceremony, please visit commencement09.georgetown.edu