With the winter 2010 quarter crawling by on its last crippled limb, we’ve began to see the true colors of many aspects of life as a college student. Personally, I’ve experienced the full spectrum of highs and lows, and through this have seen an immense amount of psychological growth, broadening my ability to deal rationally with others, as well as myself. I sincerely hope the same can be said for everyone, as college students, the focal points of our academic career should not solely be based upon earning grades.
The retention of information and practical application of our knowledge is far more essential to becoming a cognizant and content individual than working hard for a degree to get a job to work hard until death. Many adults don’t see outside their exclusive bubble, so measuring maturity by age merits far less credibility than by experience.
I’ve learned much through this thought processing through watching what I view as the shortcomings of some, and the sheer brilliance of others. Although highlighting those whose mistakes have been beneficial to my personal growth would be entertaining, I feel ethically opposed to defame any particular members of the organizations I’ve encountered throughout this quarter. It has, however, become more of a burden to bash a group in print. Instead, I’ve made the conscious decision to recognize their faults, and ensure that I do everything in my power to avoid doing the same.
Through the coverage I’ve done on the DASB, I’ve learned a great deal about ethical versus rational conduct. I’ve come to understand the value of fighting for beliefs, and the necessary courage in order to hold steady and keep cool under crushing pressure. This has been developed not only through political correspondence, but also as an editor for La Voz Weekly. The pressures of solidified deadlines have definitely taught me how to effectively allocate time, which I have learned from my personal disagreements with the Senate’s prioritizing in the decisions made for the 2010-2011 fiscal year budget. Despite this, I recognize how difficult a position that they’ve been placed in, and in such a devastating deficit, appeasing every one is simply impossible. I say this through gritted teeth, viscerally aware that the amended budget has been reduced from a much needed $21,000 to $15,000.
These next few weeks are when we can’t afford to let the pressure devastate our precarious mental state. Instead of focusing externally on trivial matters such as interpersonal conflict, or issues with the policies of the senate, reflection and synthesis are the most pressing matters. This is the stigma that the quarter’s end brings to life, and although we may be crumbling under all this pressure, recollection of the important, non academic lessons will provide a great deal of stress relief, if it’s allowed. Remember there is a light at the end of the tunnel, but once we walk into the light, there is guaranteed to be at least a few mountains left to climb. The descent won’t be for a long time.
