With great power comes great responsibility. These words, immortalized to our generation by Spider-man’s uncle, come alive during the college era of everyone’s life. College is a time of growing up, learning about yourself, and becoming who you were meant to be. College is one of the few times in life where you have nearly unimaginable freedom coupled with heavy amounts of responsibility.

Taking care of what you need taken care of is completely up to you in college. You’ve moved out of your parents’ house and into a residence hall with hundreds of other student that are experiencing nearly the exact same thing you are.  These fellow students, while some may become your best friends, will not help you manage everything that goes on in your life like your mom or dad did in high school. It is your duty to show up to meetings, classes, and get your homework and assignments done.  I learned this lesson the hard way and very quickly.  At the very beginning of my freshman year I had a meeting that I was required to attend for one of my major scholarships I had received. I didn’t show up.  Not only did I not show up, I didn’t even give a reason why I didn’t show up. This put my scholarship in jeopardy and my future at OU on the line.  After multiple apologies and a couple extra meetings, everything turned out okay, but it was still a major fright nonetheless.  Getting organized and being responsible are lessons that I have learned and have truly helped me along the way.

While all of this responsibility may seem rather daunting, it can totally be handled, and totally worth it when it comes to the freedom college students have. 2am trips to Whataburger for the famed Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit, midnight movie parties, and spontaneous weekend trips have become staples in my routine in college. There are few things more enjoyable to me than spending time with friends and having fun. These experiences with new students you meet help build bonds and friendships that will last a lifetime.  The freedom that comes with college is undeniably incredible.

College is a time in your life that will be like no other. The students at OU are open, accepting, encouraging, and have become my family. The opportunities at OU are second to none and truly make for an unforgettable time.  Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, live life, and take responsibility for everything that will be asked of you.  Don’t be afraid to grow, for you will love the person you come to be.

Andy Stewart

Letters ’16

Duncan, OK