Steve Wozniak Encourages Graduates to Embrace Individuality Over Wealth
'Never wanted to build tech empire': Apple's Steve Wozniak tells graduates to stop copying everyone else

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In a recent commencement address at Grand Valley State University, Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak emphasized the importance of creativity and individuality over monetary success. Reflecting on his journey, he advised graduates to pursue their passions and think differently, rather than following conventional paths to wealth.
- 01Wozniak's ambition was never to build a tech empire; he focused on impressing fellow engineers with his designs.
- 02He faced multiple rejections from Hewlett-Packard before deciding to co-found Apple with Steve Jobs.
- 03Wozniak sold large portions of his Apple stock and chose not to pursue wealth, stating, 'I do not invest. I don’t do that stuff.'
- 04He graduated from the University of California, Berkeley at age 35 using the alias 'Rocky Raccoon Clark' to avoid attention.
- 05Wozniak spent a decade teaching computing to elementary and middle school students, fulfilling his passion for education.
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Steve Wozniak, co-founder of Apple Inc., delivered an inspiring commencement speech at Grand Valley State University, reflecting on his unconventional journey in the tech industry. He emphasized that his motivation for starting Apple in 1976 was not financial gain but rather the desire to create impressive technology that would earn the respect of his peers. Wozniak shared his experiences of facing rejection from Hewlett-Packard, where he sought support for his personal computer concept, which ultimately led him to partner with Steve Jobs. Despite Apple’s immense success, with a market capitalization of around $4.5 trillion, Wozniak expressed that wealth was never his goal, stating, 'I do not invest. I don’t do that stuff.' He also recounted how he sold significant portions of his Apple stock and donated to charity, which could have cost him a fortune. Wozniak's message to graduates was to embrace their individuality and creativity rather than conform to societal expectations. He encouraged them to take jobs that support their living needs while exploring their passions. Education remained a core value for him, as he completed his degree at age 35 and later taught computing to young students. His advice to the graduates was simple yet profound: 'Do your best.'
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Wozniak's message encourages students to think creatively and pursue diverse career paths, which could inspire local graduates to explore unconventional opportunities.
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