What inspires us? A professor who challenges us to think differently. A teammate who pushes us to be better. A friend who encourages us when we need it most. Sometimes, inspiration comes from places we never expected.
At Olivet’s Opening Convocation, sophomore Alexandria Mitchell reflected on the many ways inspiration can shape our college experience. As the university begins a new year centered on Inspire, Alexandria encouraged her fellow Comets to stay open to the people, opportunities and experiences that can inspire us—and to recognize that college is about more than discovering what we want to do. It’s also about discovering who we are and the kind of person we want to become.
Here are Alexandria’s reflections on this year’s theme, in her own words.
Hi, I’m Alexandria Mitchell, a sophomore here at Olivet.
College is often described as a place where we come to learn, earn a degree, and prepare for our careers. But it can be so much more, and often is.
College is a place where we discover new interests, meet new people, challenge ourselves, and find inspiration in unexpected places.
Here at Olivet, we have so many opportunities to find inspiration. Through academics, athletics, student organizations, residence life, and the experiences we have outside of the classroom.
Personally, I find inspiration all around me. My friends and teammates inspire me to do and to be better every day.
My coaches and professors encourage me to step outside my comfort zone and push myself, even when I’m uncomfortable, which is one reason I’m standing up here today.
Academics can be a great source of inspiration. Professors, classmates, advisors, and even a single class or topic can motivate us to learn more and become better versions of ourselves.
Athletics can also inspire us by teaching teamwork, discipline, and leadership. Whether you participate in a sport or simply support our teams, watching others work hard and overcome challenges can motivate us to do the same.
Our clubs and cultural groups also allow us to meet people from different backgrounds and perspectives.
Residence life does the same by bringing together people with different personalities, interests, and experiences.
Sometimes, inspiration comes from places we least expect. A conversation with a friend, a campus job, a guest speaker, an internship, or a service project may be where you feel most inspired. Inspiration can even come from failure. Sometimes our challenges and mistakes teach us more about ourselves than our success does.
The most important thing is to stay open to new experiences. Don’t give up the search if your first attempts don’t work. We shouldn’t limit inspiration to one class, one person, or one club.
College gives us countless opportunities to learn from the people and experiences around us.
College isn’t just about discovering what career we want. It’s also about discovering who we are, what motivates us, and the kind of person we want to become.