Katie Mattie's Graduation Speech and Notre Dame Surprise

For as long as I can remember it has been my dream to be admitted into the University of Notre Dame. After applying in the fall, I was notified that I had been deferred and would not find out if I would be admitted until April. When April came, I received a letter saying that I would be waitlisted, and that 900 kids would be on the waitlist, but only 0-250 would make it into the school. After creating a video for the admissions staff with the help of my friends, writing an additional letter and making several phone calls to the admissions counselors, I received a phone call from my counselor saying that I would be admitted for the upcoming fall. I found out on June 7th, 2010, one day before my high school graduation. Instead of telling my friends and family about the good news, I kept it a secret until graduation night. When introducing me to give the key note address, my principal announced that I made it in to Notre Dame. My family had no idea, and were completely shocked! This is the video of the announcement, as well as my speech. (If you listen close enough, you can hear my parents deliberating whether or not it's true.)

p.s. Our principal looks like Morgan Freeman :P

Category:

Education

Tags:

• Graduation
• katie mattie
• ypsilanti high school
• notre dame
• notre dame graduation
• graduation surprise
• notre dame surprise
• katie mattie notre dame
• jonathon brown
• graduation speech
• key note address
• valedictorian's surprise

[sctvhound]

Yeah, he does look like Morgan Freeman. Great speech.

[smartsophii]

Katie! you made me cry.

CONGRATULATiONS!!

you are amazing!

[ginam]

Katie ~ your speech left me speechless!! lol! As always, you did outstanding. What a beautiful, motivational and inspiring address. We're all so proud of you! And congratulations on your acceptance to ND. They're lucky to have you!

Go Irish!