Graduation Reflections

Trident Technical College held its first socially distanced commencement ceremony on Friday, May 7 at the North Charleston Coliseum.

Colleges and universities typically invite their highest academic achievers - the valedictorians and salutatorians - to speak at graduation.

At Trident Technical College, it's about more than just a GPA.

Each year, two graduates are chosen through an audition process for the coveted speaker spots. Students are asked to prepare a four-minute reflection about what brought them to TTC, their educational journey, obstacles they faced and how their TTC experience contributed to their success. A panel of student leaders, with oversight from faculty and staff, rate the candidates on content, organization, language and delivery. The winners then work with public speaking instructors to polish their skills.

Over the years, a number of TTC graduates have stood on the coliseum stage and expressed their personal stories of hopes, dreams, stumbles and victories. Their narratives are diverse, but common themes always emerge: obstacles overcome, second chances seized and confidence gained. The joy and gratitude in their voices is unmistakable.

Their stories take you on a journey that may seem unfathomable. Yet, there they are, standing at the podium, proving to themselves and thousands of audience members, that change is possible and success is achievable - for any student who works hard for it.

Nicolas Ullo and Quati Woodberry-Gadson, TTC 2021 graduation speakers, were no exception. Nicolas graduated with an Associate in Arts degree and will pursue a Bachelor’s degree in mass communications this fall. Quati, who earned a Human Services Associate’s degree, is ready to begin a career of advocacy and service.

These two graduates have very different life experiences and different plans for the future, but they have more in common than you might think!

Take a few minutes to watch both videos on you tube by clicking the links below. You may also watch the entire graduation ceremony, which was livestreamed on Facebook, here.

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