May 4, 2020
As the 2019-2020 school year comes to a close, graduating seniors everywhere are left with questions about what to do next when the end of their college career isn't what they'd hoped it would be. Ben Montero, UT Theatre Students senior at The University of Texas at Austin Department of Theatre and Dance, had a specific question: "How do you still follow your dreams when it feels like the world isn't so supportive of them?" This week, he received an answer to his question by none other than legendary filmmaker Steven Spielberg.
A few days ago, John Krasinski (Some Good News with John Krasinski) took to Twitter, inviting seniors to create their own commencement speeches in the wake of canceled graduation ceremonies. Montero responded with a two minute submission that got Krasinski's attention, sporting a burnt orange polo and quoting The University of Texas's motto, "What starts here changes the world." Montero spoke of the inspiring ways the class of 2020 has worked to change today's world for the better and how they have persevered despite the challenges laid before them. Pieces of his speech can be heard in the May 3, 2020 episode of Some Good News, an episode dedicated to honoring the hard work of this year's seniors.
Transitioning to a special segment ofSGN's graduation episode, Krasinski met virtually with a few graduating seniors to address questions they had about entering a world of uncertainty. After meeting individually with the students, Krasinski then brought in influential figures and leaders of each field to provide answers to their questions. Montero, one of the first graduates featured in this segment, was starstruck when Steven Spielberg took the screen and shared his advice. "A real dream..." Spielberg shared, "will power you through every obstacle that people and the environment will throw against you." Montero and the other seniors were all so grateful for the advice they were given by many of their heroes, but Krasinski and his special guests made sure to note that they, the class of 2020, are the true inspiration. Montero and his classmates may not be walking the stage this May, but their determination and innovation will propel them past their obstacles and towards success.
View the Video: Some Good News with John Krasinski (May 3, 2020)
Photo Credit: Juan Leyva