Lagarde closes by returning to the Odyssey. After twenty years of war and wandering, Odysseus finally comes home — only to find his island consumed by conflict, his wife harassed by suitors, and his son struggling. He's burdened, dirty, and exhausted. But he's not dejected — he's determined. Why? Because along the way he received help and love: Athena came to him in disguise with encouragement, and his wet nurse Eurycleia recognized and embraced him. Lagarde tells graduates that they too will face setbacks, but their education is their Athena — the goddess of wisdom always in their corner. And there will always be unexpected people along the way who give them the love and confidence they need.