If I could do it again, I would make no hesitation to start from Day 1. My four years at SI were the best four years of my life. Unfortunately, like most great things, you only recognize the fact in hindsight.
If I could... I would be involved in the campus community from the beginning. I would talk to people in my classes and form actual friendships. I would go to class each day and bask in learning from some of the most inspirational teachers in the world. I would go to FML every week from the start. I would participate in the facing of social justice issues. I would put my talent to good use in the community. I would cheer on our Wildcats at as many sporting events as possible. If I could...
This summer I've run into so many '05 alumni. Some best friends. Some I had short-term bonds with. Some I hardly even talked to while at SI. Yet every time it happens, we stop and have a conversation that goes beyond the "so... college" awkwardness. They have long-term goals. They are going abroad for significant periods of time. They casually mention grad school. They are doing something with their lives.
It really comes as no surprise as so many SI alumni before us have become successful in all factions of life: from Broadway to Wall Street, television to fashion, teachers to lawyers. I'm sure several high schools can say that about their alumni. Yet SI still has something more.
Students, teachers, administration, and alumni search for more. They are successful because they actively listen to their calling and work passionately toward something greater than themselves. They act in order to fulfill their purpose. Purpose comes first. Recognition last.
If I could offer advice for any current SI student, it would be this: Go to Friday Morning Liturgy. Immerse yourself on retreat. Attend school dances, no matter how lame the theme or the fact that visitors aren't welcome. Listen to the announcements. Participate in events. Listen to your teachers. Learn. Attend theatre productions and games. Don't ever miss the Bruce Mahoney. Be friends with as many people as possible. Get to know the strangers that walk down the hall. Educate yourself on the ideals of the Jesuit philosophy. Go on immersion. Go on Thursday Morning Comfort Runs. Stay on campus until the buildings close. Wear red and blue. Make every day count. LOVE SI, because before you know it you're out of there.
Nearly every alum will gladly switch places with you. Live up to the greats before you. Don't leave the halls empty when you're gone.
