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A highlight from the University's recent spring graduation ceremonies was an inspiring speech given by former UWA graduate, Tim Minchin, which injected a bit of fun into the formal occasion.

As part of the traditional Occasional Address (where a guest speaker imparts wisdom to the graduating class), the acclaimed composer, lyricist, comedian, actor, and writer shared the following valuable life lessons.

" One : Be micro-ambitious. Put your head down and work with pride on whatever is in front of you. You never know where you might end up.

" Two : Don't seek happiness. Keep busy and aim to make someone else happy and you might find you get some as a side effect.

" Three : Understanding that you can't truly take credit for your successes nor truly blame others for their failures will humble you and make you more compassionate.

" Four : Exercise. Take care of your body: you're going to need it.

" Five : Be hard on your opinions. Be intellectually rigorous. Identify your biases, your prejudices, your privileges.

" Six : Even if you're not a teacher, be a teacher. Share your ideas. Don't take for granted your education.

" Seven : Define yourself by what you love. Be demonstrative and generous in your praise of those you admire. Send thank you cards and give standing ovations. Be pro stuff not just anti stuff.

" Eight : Respect people with less power than you.

" Nine : Finally, don't rush. You don't need to know what you're going to do with the rest of your life."

If you haven't already, be sure to check out Tim Minchin's inspiring and entertaining address in full.

For further details refer to the official media release .