Gonzalez applied for an advertising job six months after graduating and got hired immediately. The employers were impressed not by her degree but by her understanding of the city and her quick decision-making skills.
“I found joy and surprises in my journey,” she shared. “No job can promise that kind of success.”
Curiosity as a Compass
Gonzalez graduated during a tech boom, just when Google’s search engine became popular. She was excited because she could find answers to almost anything with just a few clicks.
However, she noticed a downside. Having easy access to information often replaces true understanding. “Curiosity needs vulnerability,” she explained. Asking questions openly shows what we don’t know, which can be uncomfortable.
In today’s world, shaped by AI and quick answers, many people lose their curiosity over time. They don’t stop wondering; they just become hesitant to show it. “Children are naturally curious and happy,” she noted, drawing a connection between curiosity and joy.
Gonzalez believes curiosity goes beyond just gathering facts. It’s about understanding oneself, others, and the world. This deeper understanding is essential for our human experience.
She urged the Class of 2026 to hold onto their curiosity. “Learn to separate the quick satisfaction of ticking off tasks from the deeper joy of learning,” she said. She warned against becoming too certain, stating, “When we’re certain, it often means we haven’t asked enough questions.”
Gonzalez feels that Brown graduates have a special bond, rooted in a shared intellectual curiosity nurtured by their unique culture.
“Don’t just hold on to your memories,” she advised. “Protect your willingness to ask questions. Stay open to not knowing it all and seek true understanding.”
She assured the graduates that the world may seem unpredictable, but their curiosity could guide them. “Keep asking why. Embrace being curious,” she said, encouraging them to navigate the complexities of life.
Curiosity also drives innovation. A recent study found that companies with a culture of curiosity see a 29% increase in profitability. Curious minds are the ones who will lead changes in our rapidly evolving world.
Gonzalez’s message is clear: in a time when answers are easy to get, don’t forget to dig deeper. Curiosity is your key to true understanding and growth.
