Commencement 2010: Adelphi University

NUMBER OF GRADUATES: 2,807

KEYNOTE SPEAKER:

Adelphi alumna Carol Ammon, founder and retired chief executive of Endo Pharmaceuticals Inc. in Westbury, said, "Have you ever stopped to ask yourself what you truly love? What are you good at? What do you want to accomplish in life? What obstacles are stopping you? . . . You may find yourself simply accepting what you think you should be doing rather than what you want to be doing."

CLASS SPEAKER:

Teresa Pisano of Holtsville, president of the class of 2010, said, "Sometimes when we must make a choice, the one that is not as obvious or popular can make all the difference in our lives. . . . Do not be afraid to dream big. The world is ours."

WHAT'S NEXT FOR SOME GRADUATES

Christina Sama, 21, Howard Beach, bachelor's in psychology: "I will be a graduate student at Adelphi, getting a master's in school psychology. I'm a cancer survivor, and I want kids in a school to know there's always someone out there for them."

Jason Lane, 22, Lindenhurst, bachelor's in chemistry and philosophy: "I'm going to Cornell University for a doctorate in chemistry. I'm very interested in solar technologies. The jobs are out there if you're specialized in something."

Patrick Johnson Jr., 21, Los Angeles, bachelor's in fine arts: "I'm going back to L.A. to work with my agent and get an acting job. I hear only 2 percent of actors are working. I will audition every day, and train to perfect my craft."

Ana Barbu, 22, Romania, bachelor's in communications: "I will be attending Syracuse University's journalism program, and I hope to land a job as a music journalist. I believe that jobs are starting to be available again."

Sarah Villaman, 21, West Hempstead, bachelor's in nursing: "I plan to get a master's degree and work as a nurse practitioner. I've always wanted to help people. I want to make a difference."

Compiled by Dave Marcus