by Amanda Manjone
Director, Student and Alumni Engagement
The 31st Summer Olympics is currently taking place and I am sure many of you are as glued to the television as I am, hoping our country takes home many gold medals. It always amazes me the amount of hard work and dedication in these athletes, not to mention the sacrifices they make in order to be the best at what they do and represent their country at the most prestigious sporting event in the world. Many times, they give up socialization, events they would like to attend, rest, and even time with their loved ones. They do this because they have a goal in mind and they are motivated to reach it, whether that motivation comes externally from their friends, family and coaches, or internally as a personal desire.
It is not lost on me the striking resemblance in qualities these athletes and our students and alumni here at CSU share. So many of you have a dream to improve your lives and make your family proud. You know that realizing your dream will take discipline and sacrifice, yet you push on. For these reasons, we are even prouder of you than of the athletes competing for a medal. The CSU staff and faculty act as your coaches and stand behind you so that one day you will receive your own medal: your college diploma.
One has to look no farther than the CSU group page on Facebook to be filled with inspiration. Photos of college diplomas, fellow Knights encouraging one another, and employment announcements are just some of the phenomenal things being shared. Remember to keep your eye on the prize. Focus on what motivates you and why these goals have been placed on your heart. Just like a gold medalist, your hard work will soon pay off. We’re here to cheer you on every step of the way.
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