The idea that college is “the journey of a lifetime” might be the single largest cliché employed by college recruiters. Still, there is some truth to that sentiment. Over the past three years, this University has challenged both me and my worldview intellectually, ethically, emotionally and socially.
And I know that I am not alone. I have yet to find a senior in this year’s graduating class who would claim that their four years at the Capstone were anything short of life-changing. For many students, their tenure at Alabama was also the chance to leave a mark on their alma mater.
The students in this year’s senior class have established mentoring programs for Tuscaloosa’s low-income schools, cleared the way for administrative changes to LGBTQ policies, played leading roles in the community’s response to the April 27, 2011 tornado and have accumulated a veritable mountain of national awards.
Even though their interests, perceptions and personalities greatly differ, these individuals have each forged powerful stories during their time at The University of Alabama.
This year, we have asked some of the most outstanding members of the class of 2013 to share these stories in columns that will be published on opinion pages throughout this week. These individuals represent a diverse range of involvement and interest on campus; however, they are united by the incredible difference they have made to the UA community.
It is our hope that these columns will provide insight to underclassmen and closure to those who are graduating. From SGA-president-turned-City-Council-candidate Matt Calderone to Express Night founder Colby Leopard to the legendary Tray Smith, this week’s opinions page will feature the best of what our University has to offer.
Their stories hold lessons and inspirations for every student. As this remarkable class leaves the Capstone, join us in recognizing them and their accomplishments. They have earned it.
John Brinkerhoff is the opinion editor of The Crimson White. His column runs weekly on Mondays.
