Don't float through college in a state of anonymity

From the Left

By Thomas Gaffery

Graduation is approaching and it is time for me to write the obligatory “Things I’ve Learned at Fresno State” column. I was inspired, because a few months ago, one of my friends asked me what I thought of my Fresno State experience and I responded, “College is what you make of it.” Although this sounds banal, it is true.

I have learned there are innumerable opportunities for self-betterment outside the classroom. I went from being just another college student to being exactly the kind of college student I wanted to be—one that got involved, renewed myself and encouraged others.

Multivariable Calculus and the theories of the French Physiocrats seem trite in comparison to the things I have learned outside the classroom. These life lessons are things that can't be accessed via Blackboard.

As I get ready to leave Fresno State, I think of the song “One More Time” by one of my favorite bands, FLAW. Part of the lyrics are: “I want it back one more time, Let me try one more time, Live my life one more time.”

There are memories from Fresno State that replay in my head over and over again. Think of one of your memories—one that gets better every time you reminisce.

The fondest memories in my head are oddball and mundane. The most amazing things seem to happen at the most unusual time. Lifelong friends are made in an instant. Unusual events can create the oddest feelings of camaraderie. Cherish every moment while at Fresno State, because every moment could be the best moment of your life.

During my first two years at Fresno State, I had a pronouncedly lethargic existence. I excelled academically, had a wonderful job and innumerable hours of free time. Unfortunately, due to my markedly neurotic nature—I was unhappy.

One morning, in the spring of my sophomore year I woke up and realized I was lazy. I took corrective action. In the past two years, I have sat on nearly a dozen campus committees, came out of the closet, had my first boyfriend and found a more fulfilling job. I didn’t let my new eager attitude hamper academics—I should graduate with a 4.0 in my major. Oh, and somewhere along the line, I changed my lifestyle and lost 60 pounds.

In the past two years, I have busied myself with many different causes. I have learned that the voice of a single determined student can lead to change.

When I select activities, I follow two criteria. First, I choose an issue where I have a passionate opinion. Second, I always follow my impulse and choose what I think will have the greatest impact on the campus community.

For example, this semester I began writing for The Collegian. I decided to begin writing on a whim. I woke up one morning and realized it was one of the few things I had not done while at Fresno State. Most importantly, I wanted my voice to be better heard across the campus.

As I bid my adieu and fade away, I encourage everyone to participate in the campus community. Soon, this column will be nothing more than another reel of microfilm in the library. My pictures on the wall in the student government offices will soon be relegated to “oh, he used to go here” and then to “who is he?”

Run for Associated Students Senate, apply for USU Board of Directors, start a club, go Greek—just do something, because in the end, you will cherish these memories of Fresno State more than I can ever express in words.

— This columnist can be reached at collegian@csufresno.edu