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HARDY said it was a “very humbling experience” to return to his alma mater as the commencement speaker more than a decade after his graduation.
Now 33, HARDY reminisced on his time at Middle Tennessee State University when he returned as this year's speaker. He shared stories from his journey of building his career as a songwriter and an artist in both country and rock genres, using his experiences to deliver heartfelt words of advice to the graduating class. HARDY shared stories of songwriting and touring with Morgan Wallen, cultivating relationships in the music industry, learning from his experiences with anxiety, prioritizing time with his family and more throughout his speech. He encouraged the graduates to say “yes” to life-changing opportunities, “go with your gut every single time” rather than people-pleasing, “never fight your success,” and cherish memories with loved ones rather than solely focusing on career goals.
“Never be afraid to say yes, never be afraid to say no, do it anyway, and don’t work your life away,” HARDY summed up his message. He wrote in his caption as he posted the video (warning: language) on Instagram: “Had the opportunity to give the commencement speech for my alma mater. Very humbling experience. Thank you [MTSU].”
Watch it here: