In his address, List advised graduates to embrace their unique skill sets, often referred to as their “comparative advantage.” He encouraged them to recognize and leverage their talents for success.
List also discussed the concept of “optimal quitting,” which involves not giving up on goals but rather changing the approach to achieving them. He urged graduates to constantly explore new opportunities and experiences in life, whether it be in work, living situations or personal growth.
List attributed UChicago’s culture of “extreme curiosity” and its Core curriculum to teaching students how to think critically rather than what to think. He emphasized the importance of remaining curious and using critical thinking skills to navigate the world. List believes that being a changemaker involves having an insatiable curiosity and a thirst for knowledge, qualities that UChicago graduates have developed during their time at the university. He encouraged graduates to bring their inner scientist to the world and continue learning and growing in all aspects of their lives.
