My first week on campus was packed with events held by Dunn Sport and Wellness Scholars as well as the University.  One of those events was the President’s Convocation for the first year students.  At Convocation, each attendee received a white envelope that contained a block O pin and a scarlet and gray graduation tassel.  During the ceremony, President Drake told us to use the tassel and pin as inspiration in the ensuing years of our education.  He told us that there will be many times when we will feel discouraged, but the end goal of graduating from The Ohio State University is an honor and a privilege that we all should hold onto even during our most difficult academic times.

These two items have become very important to me as a new college student.  During my first week on campus, I was still very unsure about my decision to attend here.  I also had very little confidence in my ability to succeed at such a reputable school.  Thankfully, those two items became the inspiration that I needed and that President Drake intended them to be.  They’re a constant reminder that I was accepted to this university for a reason and although I initially had my doubts, I now know that this is the best possible institution for me.

Being given those items and closing the Convocation ceremony by singing Carmen Ohio, further solidified my opinion of the wonderful community and pride at this school.  I could not be prouder to be a Buckeye.