Hilary Duff Tells Graduates to Choose Opportunities Selectively

Hilary Duff told graduates at Northeastern University that accepting nearly every opportunity early in her career left her reacting rather than directing her own path. Duff, who starred in the Disney Channel series Lizzie McGuire beginning at age 13, said the rapid expansion of the franchise into films, merchandise, and games created constant pressure to say yes.

She stated that for years she took on commercials, appearances, and additional projects because she believed that was what opportunity required.

Over time, Duff said she began to question whether every paycheck or project aligned with her own goals. She described realizing that simply accepting what was offered caused her to lose her own voice. Duff now serves as chief brand director of the fragrance company Below 60° and is the mother of four children.

She told the graduates that redirecting energy from one area can allow faster progress in another.

Duff noted that many members of the class of 2026 will enter industries undergoing rapid change due to artificial intelligence, and that some future jobs may not yet exist. She urged them to choose work that excites and challenges them while releasing commitments that no longer serve their development.

>"Choose what excites you. Choose what challenges you. Choose what gives you room to grow. And just as choose to let go of what no longer serves you.