Jake Tapper, an American, award-winning journalist, returned to Dartmouth College to give the commencement speech to the Class of 2017. Jake Tapper graduated from Dartmouth with the class of 1991 which is what makes his address that much special. Through various rhetorical strategies, Tapper was able to provide essential tips for becoming successful after graduation. To begin, Tapper used ethos to create credibility to give advice to this graduating class. Tapper is able to utilize this strategy because he has personal experience. Tapper says “So, what tangible advice do I have to share, having departed from this campus 26 years ago?” Being an alumni from the same school he gives this commencement speech allows him to speak on things that the audience can relate to. The advice that he gives during his address could be the same advice he wished someone told him when he was graduating college. He stresses the reality that everything takes time and success is not going to be achieved …show more content…
In the beginning of the speech in which he addresses his fellow classmates, he says, “...which I’m still not convinced is not a psychological experiment by Dartmouth Housing.” He attempts to break the ice by creating laughter. He also addresses the audience by describing them as “glorious, brilliant, ambitious, determined” people. Having someone like Tapper, of high prestige, made the audience feel a sense of importance. He continues creating amusement throughout his speech. When giving his “tangible advice”, he says important things such as “Call your folks.”, Floss.”, being nice to seniors and children. He then says comical tips that does not seem important like, “Always split Aces and Eights.”, “Never play keno.”, and “No one has ever had fun on a paddle boat.” By making the audience laugh, he catches their attention and essentially keep it until he is finished