Dear Electrical and Computer Engineering Class of 2020,
Congratulations on your well-earned degree! It is true, that in light of the coronavirus pandemic your class has missed out on many traditional and important milestones, including an in-person convocation; we also know you are facing a grim economy. But, I would like to remind you that over the course of your education, you have not only built skills and acquired knowledge to fuel your success in the workplace, but over the last seven months in particular, you have developed skills that will enable you to adapt to all obstacles life throws at you.
Today, we celebrate your hard work, commitment and accomplishments. You have awarded yourself with the gift of a promising future. I want to take this moment to highlight that our department – the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) – is above all, a growing community. This sense of community makes us feel like we are a part of something greater than simply ourselves. And most importantly, during these times of uncertainty, it gives us opportunities to connect with each other, reach for our goals, and make us feel safe and secure. We have no idea where you will be in the decades to come; but we know that you will always be a part of our community here in ECE.
During this time when many of us are working alone, it’s often easier to lose sight of our goals when we perceive so many hurdles in front of us. I urge you to draw on your ECE community; surround yourself with others working toward a similar goal or objective, and you’ll get the motivation and support to push yourself through those difficult moments.
Albert Einstein once said, “The measure of intelligence is the ability to change.” With this in mind, the Class of 2020 is forced to step into the future with not only vision, but flexibility and adaptability. I promise you, that it is your ability to adapt that will lead you towards continued growth and success. We don’t know what the future holds for you, but it’s bound to be amazing!
On this special day I extend to you and your families my sincerest and personal congratulations.
Manoj Sachdev, Interim Chair and Professor