Comedian and talk show host Conan O’Brien delivers what some critics deemed as “the greatest commencement speech ever” to the 2011 graduating class of Dartmouth College.

“No specific job or career goal defines me, and it should not define you. In 2000, I told graduates to not be afraid to fail, and I still believe that. But today I tell you that whether you fear it or not, disappointment will come. The beauty is that through disappointment you can gain clarity, and with clarity comes conviction and true originality.”

Read more about Conan O’Brien in SUCCESS magazine.

3 Responses to “Conan O’Brien’s 2011 Commencement Speech”

1. Olivia Sue Andrews Says:
   June 28th, 2012 at 7:31 pm

   Conan,

   I have always liked your humor but I admire you and your humor more than ever before. You are a man to be admired because you never quit and you are more sucessful now than before. The speech was incredible!
   Darmouth was lucky to have you there in 2011.

2. Bryan Slovon Says:
   November 14th, 2012 at 9:07 am

   Great speech. Good advice on dealing with failure. As all successful people know its going to happen if you are trying to achieve at the highest level.

3. Phil Daniel Says:
   February 9th, 2013 at 6:03 am

   What a great mix of humor, sincerity and wisdom. This is the blue print for a lasting address. Thanks Conan

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