Graduate speaker reflects upon Montclair State's
impact on his personal growth

For 31-year-old Christopher Kelly, returning to school gave him more than an education for a master's degree in Spanish. Selected as this year's Graduate School speaker, Kelly used his speech to convey the lessons he learned from being a part of Montclair State's rich diversity. "Studying at Montclair State gave me a great appreciation for the vast array of different cultures. As cultures collide, dependency on foreign nations plays a major role in our society. MSU raised my awareness about the benefits of diversity," he said.

A resident of Montclair, Kelly has taught Spanish for six years at Hanover Park High School in East Hanover. As a student, Kelly impressed his professors. "Christopher demonstrated in class a rare ability to analyze poetry, even the most difficult surrealist texts," said Diana Guemarez-Cruz, assistant professor in the Spanish and Italian department.

Kelly, who earned a bachelor's degree in English literature and Spanish from the University of Wyoming in 1998, said working full time and focusing on his studies did not come with ease.  "The most difficult part was being a non-traditional student.  Any free time I had was spent on my studies, which were a great deal more challenging than my studies as an undergraduate.

"My experience at Montclair has put things into perspective. I realize now that to continue my education is not something I can do alone. I need the support of those I love, and luckily they do support me," said Kelly, whose wife Vanessa was his main supporter.

Down the road, Kelly would like to pursue a doctorate degree in comparative literature.

"Why this area? I'm not sure. Perhaps it's because I come from a family of writers. I just hope I have a similar experience at the next level that I've had here at MSU," said Kelly, whose thesis was based on the representation of natural imagery in poetical works. "I think it is imperative to try and expand your comfort zone; it's how we grow as people."

"I sure won't miss the parking situation or the cold, windy nights.  I will miss my friends in class and the teachers who pushed me," he said. "Cruz has been instrumental to my growth and education.  I'll miss her great sense of humor. I have learned from my time at MSU that life is not a sprint, it's a marathon."

Click here to read Kelly's commencement address