On education

I love springtime graduations. The rest of the campus is quiet and slow but as you walk closer to The Hub and Bonython Hall, a buzz of love, happiness and pride resonates.

Graduates walk around the campus surrounded by the people who’ve encouraged them, witnessed their university journey and life, and celebrate them as they formally commence life post-uni! Here’s hoping that one day that’ll be me!

I’ve asked a few of my graduating friends to share their thoughts and feelings. It’s a mix of a whole lot of excitement but also a tiny bit of worry for the future. That’s really no surprise as the entire world still faces uncertainty in the context of COVID. One sentiment they all shared though was a true appreciation for the entire experience of university and how valuable education is. This made me reflect on my education journey so far. 

Education isn’t confined within the walls of the classroom. I learned immensely from my professors and equally so from my peers, but there was so much I also learned from leaving home to study in Australia. Travelling through Italy or Mexico gave me the opportunity to visit new places and learn about cultures very different from mine. (Note: Have a look at the human library.) Living in Australia without my family taught me independence and self-reliance. I learned how to make new friends. I learned that there was so much to gain from allowing myself to be uncomfortable. Education also comes in the form of adversity. I don’t know when we can all start planning for international travel at this point but I recall a solo trip I did several years ago. It was only to Deep Creek Conservation Park where I pitched my own tent but it will forever be a trip I will always be proud of - simple, local, but with many life lessons learned.

Go into the world and do well. But more importantly, go into the world and do good.Minor Myers Jr