Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation and the fifth wealthiest person in the world, dropped out of Harvard University. He once shared five pieces of graduation advice, saying, “I wish I was told at the graduation I never had.”

Career Flexibility: Because Your Path Isn’t Permanent

The billionaire emphasizes that career paths are never set in stone, so it’s perfectly fine to change your mind and pursue new opportunities. “What you do tomorrow—or for the next ten years—does not have to be what you do forever.”

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Lifelong Learning: Because Humility Can Be A Good Thing

Gates is a strong advocate of the saying that learning never stops. He encourages graduates to embrace humility, especially when it comes to learning, and seek knowledge from smart people. “You may be done with school. But the rest of your life can—and should—still be an education.”

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Purposeful Work: Because Finding Meaning Can Make A Difference

According to the Microsoft co-founder, it is always a good idea to gravitate toward career choices where you can solve practical problems and make a difference. “It forces you to be more creative, and it gives your life a stronger sense of purpose.”

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Friendship’s Impact: Because Good Connections Can Shape You For Life

Sharing the example of him and Paul Allen, the other co-founder of Microsoft, Gates said that friendships can have an incredible impact on a person’s career path. “The only thing more valuable than what you walk offstage with today is who you walk onstage with.”

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Balancing Life: Because Prioritizing Your Well-Being Doesn’t Make You Slacker

As the last piece of advice, Gates told graduates to not overlook the importance of maintaining a work-life balance, focusing on their well-being, and prioritizing relationships. “You are not a slacker if you cut yourself some slack.”

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