Life — June 3, 1926 — page 13: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page contains a **"Millennial Commencement Speech"** by Parke Cummings—a satirical piece mocking typical college graduation addresses. The speaker ironically warns young graduates that despite their education, they'll likely end up in mundane business jobs, not as famous authors or idealists. The satire targets the gap between commencement speakers' grandiose promises and graduates' actual futures. Two cartoon illustrations accompany the text: "Nothing to Her" depicts a young woman with a man discussing her lack of autographs on her jacket—mocking superficial social status. "Cleaned Out" shows graduates being exploited financially, suggesting alumni fund-raising schemes. The humor derives from deflating romantic notions about higher education and revealing its practical, sometimes disappointing realities.