It is with some sadness that I submit my last blog. Even though I’m working at OUSA home office for the summer, I’m going to miss my time with steering committee greatly. It’s been a truly incredible year, with successes in lobbying, policy development and determining the future direction of OUSA. We’ve accomplished so much, and I’m incredibly proud to have served with such a hardworking and intelligent group of people. They had better stay in touch; otherwise I’ll be sad.
Don’t worry though; this isn’t going to be a sentimental piece about how awesome OUSA is (though it is). Instead, I’d like to offer some advice to the incoming steering committee, and really anyone who wants to make a constructive difference in student government.
Seek to contribute, not to impress. OUSA’s biggest strength is the commitment student leaders put forth every year to roll up their sleeves, sit down with a bunch of research and find out how the education system really works. It’s only then that we can provide the educated solutions that our organization values so much.
Its not glamorous and it requires late nights and hard work, but I have always believed that student leaders are there to do this work so that others don’t have to. It’s easy to believe that because of a position or a title that you are important. However, in my time involved with student government I’ve seen some students with titles do very little, and some of their defeated rivals make tremendous differences and contributions.
Its up to you to decide what kind of OUSA you want to lead, but know that any kind of change takes an incredible commitment. The difference you make will depend on your ability to make this commitment.
I know you’ll do it.
-Chris Martin
OUSA Steering Committee 2009-2010
