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Well, obviously, I didn`t expect the career. I always hoped that I`d be able to do something, whether it be as a teacher back home in North Carolina or working with some type of non-profit in some way. As the career took form, I kind of feel like it`s every celebrity`s responsibility really. I kind of like to look at this as an opportunity, I guess, to teach in a bigger classroom.'

Clay Aiken#18

CelebrityEducationResponsibilityCareerPhilanthropyTeaching

About this quote

What does it mean?
He sees his public platform as a chance to teach and help others, beyond his original career hopes.
In plain terms
He wants to use his fame to teach more people.
What can you take from it?
Use fame to expand your impact.

Where it applies

  • public speaking
  • career transition

Putting it to work

  • mentor youth
  • support charities

Questions to consider

  • How can you turn visibility into service?
  • What limits might fame impose on teaching?

Another view

Fame does not guarantee the ability to effect change.

More from Clay Aiken

  1. 'I went to school for special education. I always assumed when I had the opportunity I would love to try and help kids with disabilities.'

    Permalink to quote #17
  2. 'We have someone here today, from the smash hit show American Idol, we're thrilled to have him joining us today, because when it was made known that he would a…

    Permalink to quote #19
  3. 'I always like the idea that you can turn on the radio and say, 'Oh, that's Clay Aiken. Oh, that's Barbra Streisand. Oh, that's Frank Sinatra, Oh, that's Tony …

    Permalink to quote #20

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