29/05/2023
Today, we attended the NAU commencement ceremony. It was an honor to meet Mr. Bill Gates before he gave the commencement address.
As a Gates Millennium Scholar, it was humbling to greet Mr. Gates with a “Yá’át’ééh” and thank him for the scholarship opportunity I received 10 years ago.
The Gates Millennium Scholarship is a fully funded undergraduate scholarship for individuals who qualify.
I remember applying for the scholarship vividly. My high school English teacher, Diane Fuller, helped many of us at Monument Valley High School apply for the scholarship and to colleges. The year I graduated high school, nine students, including myself, from Monument Valley High School received the scholarship.
I remember up until that point, I was unsure where I wanted to go to college because of cost. After receiving the scholarship, I made a commitment to attend Stanford University. So many other Navajo students made similar decisions because of this scholarship opportunity. Monument Valley High School alone has produced over 70 Gates Millennium Scholars. Many of whom, continue to give back to their communities today.
It was a humbling day to be able to shake hands with the man who made it all possible, not only for myself, but the countless other Navajo recipients. It truly changed our lives and gave us opportunities we would not have had otherwise.
During his commencement address, Mr. Gates, gave five pieces of advice for the new graduates. First, your life is not a one act play. Second, you’re never too smart to be confused. Third, gravitate towards work that solves important problems. Fourth, don’t underestimate the power of friendship. Fifth, you are not a slacker if cut yourself some slack.
