“Progress always involves risks.  You can’t steal second base and keep your foot on first.” – Fredrick B. Wilcox

College is about taking risks.  Think about it.  What better time in life is there to try, fail, try again, and succeed?  In college you are surrounded with the security of the university to help you up after you fall. Once you’re in the real world, you may not have that support system to lean on (maybe you will, I haven’t been in the real world yet, so I’m just assuming).

Now, I’m not talking about taking stupid risks.  I’m talking risks made with a rational, educated goal. For example, risks taken within friendships.  College is a breeding ground for diversity.  People come in with different backgrounds, views, opinions, etc.  Here is a chance to learn more and expand that bubble of knowledge you’ve been building for the past 18-22 years. Step out of your comfort zone and talk to someone that you may not have considered talking to.  My guess is, especially in the first few weeks of school, they probably are looking for someone to talk to too.

There are also risks taken within student organizations.  If you have a brilliant idea that you think this campus needs, what better time to act than now?!  Here at Maryville, resources you need to make a difference are at your fingertips.  People to guide you and offer advice are just around the corner.  College is a time to create a form a legacy. Legacies are rarely formed by being safe and blending in.  Stand out.  Find your voice and make a pledge to take risks within our collegiate years.