The future of work, the opportunities offered by the university, and the responsibilities that come with studying were among the topics addressed in the speeches at the first Annual Commencement Ceremony.
Speakers included the Vice President of Universidad ORT Uruguay, Julio Fernández, and one graduate from each faculty: Emanuel Schertz, Juan Francisco Noya, María José Mizraji, and Matías Crizul.
The event took place on Tuesday, March 22, 2022, at the Adela Reta - Sodre National Auditorium.
Standing on the shoulders of giants
https://youtu.be/3WQSwNVqLu0
Emanuel Schertz holds a bachelor's degree in economics from ORT and, after beginning his research career at that university, is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at Harvard University.
When asked about the process of applying for the doctoral program, he mentioned how important it was to have met people at the university who supported him and served as references:
“There’s a phrase often used in research that I really like:‘standing on the shoulders of giants.’ The idea is that, when you conduct research, you can build on all the previous findings—the giants—to see a little further and keep moving forward,” said the graduate, adding, “This phrase applies not only to research, but to all activities carried out across different generations.”
“Uruguay is a country of immigrants, where we all know and are part of stories of people who have struggled—and continue to struggle—so that their families can have a slightly better life.”
“I was lucky enough to have the support of teachers and friends who knew this world. They, in turn, had their own group of teachers and friends who guided them. The previous generation helps the next; it’s a chain —growing stronger all the time—where we all rely on those who came before us.”
“For various reasons, we’ve all had the opportunity to pursue an education. College is an intense experience that requires a tremendous amount of work. That’s why I think it’s important to remember those who were always there for us: family, friends, and teachers.”
“College degrees provide a range of knowledge and skills that last a lifetime,” said Schertz.
“Because we were able to go to school, a whole world of opportunities has opened up to us—and will continue to do so—whether they’re educational or career opportunities, or simply the tools we need to understand the world. I think it’s important to be responsible with these opportunities.”
“Let’s try to follow the example of all those who help us and have helped us day by day,” he concluded.
Make a difference
https://youtu.be/lb-sD3OMQUU
Juan Francisco Noya, an architecture graduate, stated: “We face the challenge and have the commitment to adapt to change, and furthermore, to be agents of change ourselves so that our work can transform paradigms and leave a lasting impact.”
“This generation is redefining the scope of disciplines —not only in architecture, but also in economics, technology, sociology, engineering, and various other fields,” he added. “Multidisciplinary, user-centered work is essential today and will become even more so in the future.”
Pursue your dreams
https://youtu.be/TIibHVgt3Zk
Matías Crizul, a graduate in Systems Engineering, said: “We must not let ourselves be held back by the challenges inherent in our profession, because we have the tools we need to bring about change—and if we didn’t, we would have to invent them.”
Crizul congratulated all the graduates and added, “Never stop pursuing your dreams.”
A more connected world
https://youtu.be/e7MusNgaStY
María José Mizraji, a graduate of the Bachelor’s program in Communication, said: “Throughout my studies, I met professors and classmates—now colleagues—who changed the way I see and experience the world.”
The graduate urged her fellow graduates to build “a kinder, more honest, and more communicative world.”
Changing society
https://youtu.be/0f1chyV2zfU
Julio Fernández began by commending the graduates’ hard work and the support of their families. He then stated: “You are now part of the small fraction of Uruguayans who have earned a college degree. This is a privilege that comes with a responsibility: to help transform our society through your drive, your education, and your ability to innovate.”
The vice-chancellor also noted that the coronavirus has changed the way people work around the world.
We now have new opportunities for personal growth, career advancement, and personal development. It’s time to put our skills to use and come up with new ideas to help solve old problems.
The pandemic also changed how many people view their priorities. “On the other hand, these times have helped us focus on what really matters, such as the health and well-being of our loved ones.”
To address the challenges ahead, Fernández noted that we must strive to build an inclusive society, and this cannot be achieved simply by ensuring universal access to information.
“Amid all these changes, we hope you can recognize what remains constant—the things that will never become obsolete: the ability to learn, discipline, initiative, teamwork, and respect for others.”