By Lacey Okamura
Staff Writer
We all have that person in our lives who seems to have it all put together. Not only do they excel academically, making dean’s list every semester and in the top of their class, but they are outgoing and know every person on campus. They are president of multiple organizations, captain of an athletic team, volunteer at the tutoring center and try to solve world hunger on the weekends.
While that last point may have been an exaggeration, we can all think of someone who somewhat fits that description: the person who does anything and everything. These students are who society labels as the “leaders of the next generation.” They are hardworking and outgoing people that take advantage of all the opportunities offered to them.
Social norms lead us to believe that being this ideal student is what we should all strive for. Being extraordinary is what seemingly makes people special, and what gets you recognized. But how realistic is this?
Logically, it’s impossible for every student to be president of a club or captain of a team. Not everyone has time for extracurriculars because some work a part-time job to help pay for school. Others may spend hours and hours in the library to keep up with their massive workload as an engineering major. Some students may even be dealing with mental health issues and struggle to get out of bed in the morning.
None of these students should be considered lazy for not being overly involved in campus. They are students trying to survive the next four years and earn a degree. If this makes them “ordinary,” then there’s nothing wrong with being ordinary.
Of course, there’s nothing wrong with being incredibly involved either. If you are the person who matches that description, then you should be extremely proud of yourself. But, it is also 100% acceptable if you don’t fit that description. What makes us special goes beyond having an extensive resume.
We all have intricate, complex lives that carry their own challenges. We all have relationships with others that require attention and love. We all have characteristics and interests that set us apart from others. These are things that make someone special, not just a list of accomplishments.
At the end of the day, all of us are on campus for the same purpose, which is to learn. Sure, some people may end up turning into those predicted world leaders and enacting change, but most of us will end up working regular 9-to-5 jobs. Remember to give yourself grace as a student. If you are doing the best you can, that is more than enough.
