Life is a Learning Journey: My Advice for Recent Graduates

I had the great opportunity last week to speak to the Class of 2022’s commencement at the University of Georgia, which has long held a special place in my heart.

My oldest daughter graduated from the Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication 11 years ago and my youngest just wrapped up her freshman year. I’ve also now called Georgia home for decades and consider UGA my adopted alma mater, so it was a thrill to see the graduating class welcomed by a beautiful rainbow over Sanford Stadium.

Before the ceremony began, I had the opportunity to meet some of our newest Delta employees who were walking at graduation that evening. Meeting young people is one of my favorite parts of my job. I learn from them every day and love hearing about how they want to grow their professional careers and dedicate time to traveling the world. They are full of optimism and are heading on an exciting road ahead.?

I saw my friend, Mary Barra, recently shared a few lessons?she’s learned over the years and thought I might take a few minutes to do the same for all the recent graduates who are about to embark on their journey ahead:

• Character is not built by crisis; it is revealed in crisis.?At the start of the pandemic, Delta Chairman of the Board Frank Blake reminded me that during this time, we would show our values and true colors. This advice kept both me and Delta going through the challenges of the last two years. I reminded myself of it every day.
• Make learning your lifelong pursuit.?It's important to start your professional journey knowing that your education has only just begun. Take the opportunity and seek to learn new roles, acquire new skills, meet new people and develop unknown talents. To this day, I’m still not done learning.
• Invest in yourself. Ensue confidence in your abilities and the voice you carry.?The most successful leaders hold a quiet inner confidence and fearlessness that is gained from years of experience pursuing their life goals with passion. Confident people don't need to be the smartest person in the room – because the smart people want to work with and for them. Remember this in a big meeting or when you’re under pressure.
• Life is a team sport.?We find our greatest rewards by assisting others to realize their opportunities and potential. I’ve been blessed to accomplish many things in my life but what I’m most proud of is a direct result of the whole Delta team of more than 75,000 of the world’s best employees. My job is to support them, take care of them and be their servant leader.

Congratulations to the Class of 2022. We will all be cheering you on. And always remember, make service to others your mark in this world and to thine own self be true.

Ed