In fact, in many American embassies around the world you can find American diplomats whose first foreign experience came through the Peace Corps. These, of course, are not the only ways in which young people can become involved in public service. ICU students receive uniquely prepares you to build bridges across borders and to foster understanding among peoples. I know, because in our embassy and our consulates we count among our staff 9 ICU graduates, who do a tremendous job of facilitating the U.S.-Japan relationship, including one of the interpreters for my address, Ms. Fumiko Gregg. At the outset, I said that I wanted to speak to you as the representative of one generation to another.
Life is a tough school, in which the test comes before the lessons.
I urge you to keep this in mind as you venture out into the world. What I would also ask you to keep uppermost in your minds is that there is no shame in trying and failing. It's just like the American industries I mentioned earlier. Don't be afraid to try new things - to try bringing new and innovative solutions to existing problems. Above all, keep your dreams close to your heart and never give up on them.