5 Most Inspirational Graduation Speeches

We Irish often need a good aul' kick in the arse to motivate us into getting up and doing something great with ourselves. Most of the time, all we need is a little inspiration to get us feeling determined and optimistic. Whether you are confused about college courses, worried about finding a job or simply looking for inspiration, here are my top 5 graduation speeches to get you on track and ready to conquer anything life throws your way.

5. Jim Carrey Speech at the 2014 MUM graduation.

This one minute long piece sees Jim Carrey speaking about his father and why we must follow our dreams. Tissues at the ready!

4. Ellen DeGeneres 2009 Commencement Speech at Tulane.

Ellen's wit, humour and her great dance moves make this speech both light-hearted and beautiful. If I could choose who would speak at my graduation, it would most definitely be Ellen after watching this clip.

3. J.K. Rowling Speech at Harvard Commencement.

JK Rowling's speech about power, failure and overcoming obstacles is one to watch. “You might never fail on the scale I did. But some failure in life is inevitable. It is impossible to live without failing at something, unless you live so cautiously that you might as well not have lived at all. In which case, you fail by default."

2. Steve Jobs 2005 Stanford Commencement Address.

This one needs no introduction, if you haven't seen it yet, what are you waiting for?

1. Bill Gates Harvard Commencement Speech 2007.

Bill Gates is one of the most inspirational people of the 20th century and this speech does not disappoint. With a net worth of $62 billion,  Bill Gates takes a different approach on this speech to the normal "life lesson speeches".