
A video of Vivek Ramaswamy’s high school graduation speech has gone viral, showcasing the biotech entrepreneur’s early introspective outlook. At 18, speaking at St. Xavier High School’s 2003 graduation, Ramaswamy shared heartfelt reflections on his high school journey, saying, “I have been racing my entire high school career, but now… I wish I could have stopped, just a little earlier, and caught a breath of the fresh air that has surrounded me the whole time.” His words resonated with viewers for their introspective depth and foresight. In his speech, Ramaswamy welcomed teachers, friends, and classmates, drawing on literary insights from his English class to explore the significance of the moment. “It is better to travel than it is to arrive,” he quoted, expressing the mixed emotions of graduation as both an ending and a beginning. Ramaswamy also reflected on the meaning of “commencement,” noting its roots in the French word “commencer” (to begin), as he pondered whether graduation marked an ending or a launch into new horizons. His words captured the excitement and uncertainty of transitioning into the future. The video went viral just days after President Donald Trump announced that Ramaswamy would join his administration alongside Elon Musk. This development comes after Ramaswamy dropped his presidential bid, opting to back Trump for the elections. His journey from a young, reflective graduate to a prominent figure in American politics adds an intriguing layer to his high school speech, reflecting his evolution and the broader political context.