You are very right in that we need to “Know how long your allotted time is.” I might suggest that the graduate prepare 2 speeches. One for the allotted time and one which is about 10 minutes shorter (assuming the speech is at least 30 minutes long). Invariably, with a series of speakers at a graduation, or any other event, the time frame gets extended and the whole event drags on and on. How refreshing it would be to have the next speaker come to the lectern and speak for 10 minutes less than expected. Who will be remembered most during the graduation. No one remembers who talked before Abraham Lincoln or what he talked about for 2 hours, but everyone know of Lincoln’s 2 minute speech at Gettysburg.

One final point. I totally agree with the rest of your comments. Focus on the message, not yourself. Include a story about yourself. Very important because stories are remembered, not necessarily the point you wanted to make. Certainly, cliches should be avoided, and practicing your delivery is quite important. Rather than practicing in front of a mirror, if you have a camcorder, I would encourage using the camera. Practicing in front of a mirror, tends to limit the full flow of your body language and “mirroring” will not help with your voice modulations.

Most of all, enjoy your graduation and look forward to a bright future.