Leaders of the Washington University in St. Louis community gathered in the Athletic Complex for the annual Convocation Aug. 25 to celebrate the Class of 2020 and to offer its 1,780 members advice and encouragement. Here are some of their words of wisdom:
“Here is your first quiz: Is the Class of 2020 in the house? Congratulations. You just received your first ‘A’ at Washington University. Enjoy it.” — Faculty speaker Lerone Martin, assistant professor of religion and politics at the John C. Danforth Center on Religion and Politics
“You are not in competition with your classmates. Your own goals should be your guideposts.” — Chancellor Mark S. Wrighton
“Remember that there is no single path to WashU. You might not even be able to guess what those around you have been through to get here. So, when in doubt, ask. Don’t settle for your own assumptions, as they will not substitute the truth.” — Yaala Muller, senior in the College of Arts & Sciences
“Your students will find their way as long as you get out of the way. It’s a difficult task as parents let go. Our best advice is to provide support when requested, but to otherwise step back and have faith that the wonderful adults you raised will find their way.” — Clarissa Weirick of the Parents Council
“Pursue your passion — not that kind of passion; your academic passion. Find a field of study that you are excited about and resolve to put all of your time and energy into being an engaged and intellectually curious student.” — Lori White, vice chancellor for student affairs
“To the student who’s been sleeping with one eye open waiting for the admissions office to realize they a made a mistake: To you I say, there is no mistake. You are here for such a time as this.” — Lerone Martin