Meryl Streep Barnard

My parents, who, admittedly, couldn't see much from their seats, found the first half wildly entertaining but the second half a rambling snoozer. But at 12 feet away, I was spellbound, hanging onto her every word--as were my peers, apparently, who gave her a standing ovation. I'm not sure how often that happens at commencement. I left inspired, but unsure of where the inspiration led.

Multi-academy award winning actress Meryl Streep spoke to Barnard's graduating class Monday, humbly relaying to grads her own success story and though...