Hobart and William Smith Colleges

COMMENCEMENT 2025

Aaron McClintock '25 
Senior Speech
May 18, 2025

Four years ago, I chose Hobart and William Smith because I thought I knew exactly what I wanted in a college experience.

As a quiet student with a demanding learning disorder, I planned on keeping my head down, finishing my four years and never entering a classroom after I walked away with my diploma. 

• I chose HWS and came to row but did not.
• I came to major in sciences but did not.
• I planned on living in a theme house but did

So how did this turn out and what did I do for 4 years?

Nothing that I ever planned or expected.

• I made lifelong friends starting day one of Orientation
• I learned the Russian language and spent a semester in Ireland exploring family history and making connections.
• I found mentors and guides on and off campus that showed me what is possible with determination and a passion for what you do.
• I volunteered at a thrift shop for what was supposed to be 1 day but turned into 2 very fun years with the unlikeliest characters that a college student could befriend.
• Much to my parent's disbelief, their quiet son was cast in a stage production and emceed a film festival.
• I became an EMT and learned that the classroom can be exhilarating and a non-stop
• Most importantly I found out that higher education at HWS is a life-long engagement that you charter for yourself.

At HWS you can't sit on the sideline, you get involved and make things happen.

• Sometimes the motivation comes from your choice but often it is under duress by the people who know what you are capable of, even if you don't believe it.

You learn to not just think locally, but to think globally with a mindset that helps you work with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures.

You grab the vast opportunities that are available, get involved, jumping in head first and asking questions later.

I embraced my love for film in my Media and Society major and now plan on pursuing a Master's Degree in Filmmaking in Europe and applying to the Peace Corps. We will see who takes me first.

As I said, I did not plan to take a class ever again but, ironically, I will leave in 3 days for Freiburg, Germany with Professor Gu for yet another exciting HWS class.

While our time here at HWS has been short, the impact is everlasting.

• We are now armed with a 4-year degree from an esteemed institution,
• have the backing of thousands of alumni,
• the support of dedicated staff and
• are part of a proud legacy of innovation and inclusion.

We came together 4 years ago as fresh faced first years, ready to learn; and today we leave as critical thinkers and leaders entrusted to make change and have a positive global impact.

In a world where so many things are uncertain and chaotic, what is important to remember is that

• we are responsible for leaving behind a powerful legacy for generations to

As HWS graduates we change the future by taking action, let's jump in and ask questions later.

Thank you.