Branford's Miranda N. Shao Graduates From College

Miranda N. Shao Graduates from Colby College

WATERVILLE, ME -- Miranda N. Shao, of Branford, was one of 462 seniors who graduated from Colby College in Waterville, Maine, May 26, 2019, receiving a bachelor of arts degree at the College's 198th Commencement. Award-winning television writer David E. Kelley was the guest speaker.

Shao, who majored in educational studies and history, attended Branford High School and is the daughter of Zhong Shao and Xiaoguang Zhang of Branford, Conn.

David E. Kelley, creator of popular and critically acclaimed shows from Ally McBeal to Big Little Lies, spoke to a crowd of more than 3,000 and urged Colby College graduates to reject a career that is "not so terrible" and instead pursue what will make them truly fulfilled.

Acknowledging that his advice might seem banal, he urged students to do what gives them joy. "Cling to the [inner] scream," Kelley said. "Keep it in there because so many, after failing to get what they want, decide the easier route is just to invalidate the want and pretend it was never a goal to begin with, and you become a little more deadened inside."

Colby President David A. Greene handed a diploma to each of the graduates.