We wrote an article a few weeks ago in September challenging DePauw students to demand that the university improve in areas where it has been falling short. Students should look at their four years at DePauw as a foundation from which their best years will come. Given our interests and fields of study, we should become capable and adequately prepared for whichever path we chose to pursue next. As undergraduates, we must not only be our own catalysts, but also seek out assistance along the way when necessary in order to assure that our foundation is suitable for the "real world" and that our goals remain within reach.
In addition to celebrating the successes of DePauw, Old Gold Weekend offers a unique, annual opportunity for students, alumni, friends and guests to come together and discuss what it means to have a DePauw education. Current student discussions across campus have been focusing on how the DePauw alumni network can better serve undergrads. This, we contend, is a flawed way of thinking. The alumni and undergrad relationship should be one of reciprocity, sparked by the students.
Old Gold Weekend brings hundreds of DePauw alumni back to campus. It is a reunion of talent and success all toasting to Old DePauw. Current undergrads would be foolish to idly stand by and not capitalize on this opportunity. Instead of assuming that alumni understand the current challenges for DePauw students, we should make them aware. As undergrads, we truly understand better than anyone else what it means to be a DePauw student. We know the problems, challenges and rewards of being a DePauw student.
Staying in the shadows this weekend will not be beneficial. Approach alumni and share your stories, good and bad. If you are unsure if they are DePauw alumni, approach them anyway. Worst case, you'll have a laugh and impart a feeling of honor that you thought they were a DePauw graduate.
It should be the goal of each and every DePauw student throughout this beautiful autumn weekend to showcase both our achievements and the challenges facing the campus. Reach out to guests, visitors and alumni. Alumni will notice. The board of trustees will notice.
As students we have the tremendous opportunity to be able to join the board for lunch today. Our concerns will be heard, and discussions will begin. Let them know about us, and then in turn learn about them.
Through our service to this university and by displaying our commitment to its improvement, we can best serve all others with whom we share this Old Gold bond. In the spirit of bettering ourselves by bettering this institution, "Ask not what DePauw can do for you, ask what you can do for DePauw."
- Burns is a senior from West Lafayette, Ind., majoring in political science. Kirkpatrick is a senior from Overland Park, Kan., also majoring in political science.