Commencement – the End or Just the Beginning?
Lacey Bowman, Chi Delta (U of Colorado). International Vice President
Commencement: noun, a beginning or start.
I remember when I learned the definition of commencement and was a little confused. Wasn’t Commencement considered graduation? The end of school, not the beginning of school?
While the point of Commencement and Graduation is to celebrate your accomplishments in school, it is just as much a sendoff to your next chapter. I encourage you all to read Oh, the Places You’ll Go! by Dr. Seuss. The lessons are relevant for all stages of life.
As you commence with the next chapter of your life, take an inventory of what you’ve learned and how your school, AOII, and other organizations you were involved with have prepared you for this next stage. I will experience my own type of Commencement this month at Convention, concluding two biennium on the Executive Board and a decade on the Properties Board. Here are some lessons I’m taking with me as I conclude this period of service and commence my next chapter.
Come from a place of “Yes”: We don’t grow or evolve without new ideas. As crazy as something may seem, come from a place of “yes, we can do that”! Don’t dismiss anything immediately, work through the various points. You may still come up with the decision that the idea isn’t worth pursuing but imagine all the innovations that may have been lost if they were dismissed immediately.
Surround yourself with a great team: Surround yourself with great people who are striving for the best and have expertise in areas other than your own. In AOII, I’ve had the fortune of working alongside amazing volunteers and professional staff partners. Professionally, I also seek out teammates who look to excel, take ownership of their responsibilities, and contribute unique and diverse viewpoints to our shared mission.
Always come prepared: When attending a meeting or discussion, review the topic being discussed and any prep work prior to the meeting. Come with questions – or ask questions beforehand if they will require research by others. This will ensure a more productive discussion if everyone is already well versed in the issue at hand.
Never limit your ambition: We all have the ability to achieve great things. Don’t limit yourself because of doubt or imposter syndrome. Dream big and try new things. One of my favorite sayings is “growth only happens outside your comfort zone”. Take risks, experience failures, and go on to greatness.
My experience in AOII has helped me grow as a person and a professional. As you celebrate your Commencement events with family and friends, reflect on everything you’ve gained during your college experience. Commence the next chapter of your life with great friends, experiences, and lessons you’ve gained.