Student orators

Could you represent your graduating class, and leave a lasting impression of your time at York?

At each graduation ceremony in 2026, there will be an opportunity for a graduating student to give a personal message to their classmates, family and friends.

This could be you! We hope it will be an unforgettable experience - and one which could enhance your CV.

If you’re selected as a student orator, you’ll be awarded a certificate in recognition of your contribution.

Previous student orators

For inspiration on what you might say, have a look at these orators from the Summer 2025 graduations:

Video

Thomas Mason

School of Physics, Engineering and Technology

Video

Subicsha Thayaparan

Department of Politics and International Relations

How to apply

To apply to become a Student Orator, complete the form below by Tuesday 2 June.

Student Orator application

All shortlisted applicants will be invited to interview on Tuesday 9, Wednesday 10 or Thursday 11 June - interviews can take place online or by telephone. We’ll let you know whether your application is successful by Wednesday 17 June.

If you are chosen, you will need to present a first-draft of your three minute speech by Wednesday 24 June. Three minutes equates to between 300 and 500 words. Your speech might include the following:

brief thanks to the individuals responsible for your success;
an anecdote relating to your experience at York;
a reflection on what that experience has enabled you to learn and;
a conclusion reflecting on why that learning experience has been valuable, or what others in your graduating class can take away from it.

We’ll give feedback on your draft by Wednesday 1 July. You should then deliver a second draft of your speech by Wednesday 8 July.

Further details will be confirmed with successful applicants.

Questions?

If you’d like to find out more, email clare.moffatt@york.ac.uk.