When the opportunity presented itself to write this column, I wasn’t sure I would have anything worthwhile to say. However, after thinking about it, I thought, “Why wouldn’t I do this?” Even if no one reads it or cares what I have to say, why not? And that brings me to what I hope will be an overarching message throughout this column: Say yes to every opportunity that comes your way.
And I don’t mean this just academically or professionally, or as a way to get ahead in the world, but say yes to the possibility of a new friendship, even if you already have “enough” friends; say yes to applying for an organization, even if you don’t think you’re qualified enough; say yes to going to a date party where you know no one but your date – you guys could end up dating or becoming best friends or never seeing each other again. You simply don’t know, and that’s the best part of it.
Don’t close yourself off to new experiences because you are scared of what will happen. Trying out for Capstone Men and Women, serving as recruitment chair for Chi Omega, even being in relationships have been some of the scariest experiences of my life, but I have found that the most rewarding experiences have come from taking risks. I have never been much of a risk taker. I am extremely cautious in most aspects of my life, so this is something I have learned over time and am continuing to learn. For instance, I am still 100 percent incapable of going up to a cute boy to say hello. I cannot and will not do it, but you should. Why not? If you are able to do that, I admire you. You are braver than I. College and life are full of new and scary experiences, and as a quote from one of my favorite movies, “A Cinderella Story,” says, “Don’t let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.” I know, I’m embarrassing, but those are words to live by. That applies to so many aspects of life.
College is also a time to surround yourself with people who may not think exactly like you. I grew up in a very like-minded community surrounded by people who had similar beliefs and ways of thinking as myself. Now, for any of you who know me, you know that I am very committed to those beliefs, and my way of thinking is not likely to be changed; however, I think it is important to see how others view the world.
In a business initiative class taught by Gorman Houston – a favorite teacher among many of you, I’m sure – we read “The Art of the Start” by Guy Kawasaki. In the book, Dee W. Hock says, “It is essential to employ, trust, and reward those whose perspective, ability, and judgment are radically different from yours. It is also rare, for it requires uncommon humility, tolerance, and wisdom.” Not everyone will agree with you, but don’t turn away from people who challenge your way of thinking, instead embrace them. I believe it will make us all better people.
Last, I want to implore you to take advantage of where you are in your life right now. You only get to be here for so long, so don’t let it go to waste. Say yes to everything that comes your way and thank God that you go to the greatest university in the nation, The University of Alabama. Roll Tide.
Emily Meineke is a senior majoring in public relations. She was president of the senior honor society Omicron Delta Kappa.
