Spring break hit me like a brick wall. The arrival back in Charlottesville reminded me that the real world is right around the corner. I will have a real job next year, live in my first apartment and — gulp — be on my own. The sudden realization that Final Exercises lies only weeks away caused me to reflect a little on my time here at the University. This reflection is one I want to share — and I want to encourage you to consider too.
My reflection started out with the question of, “How have I changed?” Although I couldn’t put my finger on specific ways I have changed from first to fourth year, I do know that I have become less naïve about the world around me. I have learned that deep hurt and sadness exist. More importantly, this “ un-naiveté” taught me to appreciate the little things in life.
This then led to introspection about what “little things” I have come to love about our University. It’s funny how this list doesn’t end. From a friend who has a story polar opposite from mine, to a professor who sat down and talked to me about raising and showing cattle, I’ve been changed. There is also the fact that I am living in a room endowed purely for someone that is “good.” These little things have shaped me here at the University, and these little things have led to finding inner joy.
Right now I am taking a project management class in the Commerce School. I’ve learned a little bit about root cause analysis, causing me to ask why, why, why, again and again — hoping to find the origin of the things that I do and think. For these little things — these little joys — the bottom why comes down to someone giving back. My friend goes here because he is on scholarship. Someone giving back made this school and my relationship with him possible. My professor teaches here because someone gave back to create a professorship, thus ensuring that there is money for him and others to reach out to students far in the future. My room, an acknowledgement that this University cares about character, came from someone starting an endowment. By giving back, a family ensured that someone would be recognized every year for putting others in front of themselves, for ensuring humility and for making this place a better one.
In my “root cause”-like analysis, I dug deep to find that there is joy in giving back. Giving back so others can share the little things that I prized is something that I now find joy in being part of. This year, the Class Giving Campaign is one that allows everyone in the fourth-year class to give any amount to any “little thing” that has changed them or their lives here at the University. I encourage each and every one of you to think about how you have changed. As younger first, second and third years think about the little things that are changing you. At the University, expect them. Think about what has made you better and what has opened your eyes to the world around you. Think about these “little things” and take it upon yourself to give back and make them possible for others.
Virginia Moore is a fourth-year trustee.
Read More
LETTER: Medical students stand in support of transgender youth
By Rachel Rezabek , Russell Hawes , Ishaan Rischie , Elianna Dunster , Kaile Maske , Zain Ahmad and Zoe Ziff | 9 hours agoAs future physicians, we cannot remain silent, especially since U.Va. Health is one of the most comprehensive gender health centers in the country.
HUYNH: The Supreme Court must support civil rights litigation in Virginia and beyond
By Viet Huynh | 14 hours agoThe Supreme Court must prioritize protecting the litigating power of the people against potentially tyrannical laws by their government.
EDITORIAL: U.Va. Health lets fear trump its mission to do no harm
By Editorial Board | YesterdayIt is high time to resist these authoritative and dangerous actions before there are no federal avenues left for resistance.
