Merriam Webster defines a salutatorian as "the student usually having the second highest rank in a graduating class who delivers the salutatory address at the commencement exercises". The practice of delivering a commencement speech is prevalent in high schools across the United States and Philippines. The rank is normally decided on basis of the grade point average (GPA). In certain rare cases, credits from other activities are also considered. The valedictorian―the student who tops the class―addresses the students at the end the graduation ceremony, but the salutatorian is assigned the task of giving the opening speech. Apart from the speech, he/she might have to introduce other speakers, alumni, or special guests. Sometimes, the salutatorian might also get a chance to give away awards and honors to the graduates. In religious, private schools, he/she might be asked to offer an invocation. If you have to give the speech, consider it as an honor because hundreds of fellow students will be looking up to you. Here are some tips on how to write and prepare for this speech. ◈ The first important thing to do is to ascertain the time allotted for the speech. Ask the concerned authorities so that your speech is not too short or long. Also, before you prepare a draft of your speech, confirm with the school authorities whether any special things need to be mentioned like the beliefs of the institution, etc. ◈ You will be the first one to speak, so your speech should be short and interesting. It means that you will have to welcome everyone and "break the ice". ◈ Choose a topic that is really close to your heart. Ensure that your fellow students will also be able to relate to the subject and would like to listen to it. Select an appropriate opening very well, maybe add a little humor to lighten the atmosphere. ◈ Lastly, put all your thoughts in an order and check for any grammatical errors (if any). Practice the speech properly and be ready for the D-day! This is the time when you get to acknowledge every single person who helped you. There must have been friends, teachers, or parents and many others who in some way or the other helped and shared your joys and sorrows. Appreciate with all your heart, try to mention something that many would not know, yet you would want everyone to know. It's time to tell them that you haven't forgotten about it, and you'll always be grateful. Not only past, but thank each one for being present there. This topic is sure to touch everyone because every single person has a treasure trove of memories. Remember the first few days where everyone had fears and anxieties, the projects and studies, which you managed with each other's help, the trips or functions where everyone had the time of their lives! Try to revisit the milestones of the past. Just go on and you'll love how everyone else follows you. This is a vital topic because everyone assembled in the hall is going to venture out into the world full of hopes and dreams. Use some great stories and quotes to inspire and motivate. Narrate examples of famous people to emphasize that nothing is difficult. You could also share your own experiences of what motivated you. Send out your best wishes to everyone. Wish everyone lots of luck for their immediate future. Do not try to be a perfect speaker because no one is. Talk like you've always been, you can share your fears openly. You can also share the story of how you got about with your speech. Last but not the least, add some punny language for some fun. Joke about being second or about anything you like. Just be yourself and you'll win all hearts!