Piper Kerman’s Word’s of Wisdom
By: Lisa Danca
On September 3rd, Piper Kerman addressed the Salem State University community at the annual convocation ceremony.
Kerman’s best-selling memoir ‘Orange is the New Black: My Year in a Women’s Prison’ was selected as this year’s first year reading experience and it recounts her experience in prison after pleading guilty to drug smuggling and money laundering. Although didn’t she didn’t answer any questions about her book during her presentation, Kerman did have an inspirational and uplifting message for the faculty, students, and alumni of Salem State. Kerman taught her audience that the people you will meet in college will be some of the most influential people you will ever meet. Basing this off her college years and her time in the Danbury Correctional Facility, Kerman stated that “the common ground we find together is much more important than the distinguishes that may separate us. You can never have too many true friends ever. And you can never imagine some of the ways in which you will have to rely on them.” Kerman also acknowledged in her speech that mistakes are “okay” because they are ultimately inevitable.”You will never learn enough and mature emotionally without making a lot of mistakes.” In conclusion to her presentation, Kerman advised the class of 2017 to do three things during their next four years- watch Warner Herzog’s documentary “One Second To Next” , try one thing you’re terrified to do, and stay out prison (“unless you’re volunteering”)!
Piper Kerman’s presentation at Salem State was personable and elevating. She said that her four years at Smith College were some of the most transformational years of her life. She credits one of her college professors for making her “a rigorous thinker, a better writer, and a more knowledgeable citizen of the world.”
Students’ reactions to Kerman’s memoir.
Kelly McGowan, Theatre Major
“What I enjoyed most about Kerman’s memoir was how it shed a different light on the prison system. I was surprised by the camaraderie and sense of family established by the woman at Danbury.”
Matt Bolden, History Major
“My favorite part of the book was the part where Piper was adjusting to a totally alien situation; it’s similar to me adjusting to college.”
Christen McCaughlin, Criminal Justice Major
“I liked how Piper’s book showed the prison system from the inmates point of view. I also liked how her book highlighted discrimination in sentencing and how little prisons do to rehab their convicts instead of simply punishing them.”
Contributor’s Note: Lisa Danca thoroughly enjoyed Kerman’s memoir and presentation at Salem State. You can read her review of the book over on Red Skies Recommends.