Decorated Olympian and 2012 UC Berkeley graduate Nathan Adrian served as his alma mater’s 2018 Winter Commencement keynote speaker Saturday, and his talk did not disappoint any swim fans in the house.
“I swam fast and I’ve learned a lot of things, so maybe I’ll impart some wisdom,” Adrian joked of his qualifications.
Huge thank you to the @UCBerkeley class of 2018 for having me speak today! It was a privilege and I hope you go on to do the amazing things I know you are all capable of! Congratulations and best of luck to you all. #gobears #berkeley150 pic.twitter.com/OQRnxZEpg3
— Nathan Adrian (@Nathangadrian) December 15, 2018
Revealing a London gold medal under his gown, Adrian reflected on the highs and lows of his career, including the infamous suit-splitting incident, spilling a drug test sample, his relationship with his coach Dave Durden, and his path to becoming an international star. He also talked about his transition back to school following the 2008 Olympics, the pressure he faced in the first year of his pro career, and learning to bond with other Team USA athletes while on international trips.
“Set high goals. Don’t be afraid to invest in them,” he concluded. “Find that mentor you need in order to grow, and feel free to leave your phone in your pocket for an entire meal – or perhaps a speech – every once and a while.”
Watch his full address, which begins at 1:08, below:
Well worth watching: starts at the 1:07:30 mark. Less than 10 minutes overall. Some gems of wisdom and — humility.
He also talks about rushing through a drug test and spilling urine all over!
Special highlight: he whips it out at the 1:10:01 mark!
Enjoy this must-watch!
Word choice, my dude. Don’t get my hopes up like that.