Happy Independence Day: What’s Your “Road to Rio?”

 

 

Happy Fourth  of July  weekend everyone!  I hope you had a great holiday.  Yesterday,  I read a news article about Blake Leeper, a sprinter who is training to be the first American paralympian to compete in the Olympics to be held in Rio de Janeiro in 2016.

Born without feet, ankles, and lower leg bones, Leeper has worn prosthetics since he was nine months old. He competed in last year’s Paralympics in London, winning a silver medal in the 400-meter race and a bronze medal in the 200-meter event. Now he has set his sights on competing at the Olympic level not just against others with physical disabilities but with the finest able-bodied athletes in the world. I thought his story was a fitting one for Independence Day, and also for all of us who will be heading not to the Olympics in a couple of years but to college in a few weeks. Here’s why:  

1.       College can be each of our “personal  Olympics.”The profile of Leeper explains that his initial interest in track and field was matched by uncertainty about which events to pursue and how training regimens worked.

College orientation can feel a bit the same way. As a new student, you know you’re in a place where you can pursue your dreams, but you might not know yet how the school “works” or how to make the most of it.  Blake’s example is a helpful one for these purposes.  Just as he has a few years to optimize his training for the Olympic games, you have four years to optimize your college experience and “ train” for whatever goals or career you want to pursue afterward. Blake took the initiative and contacted organizations that he knew could make his dreams of running come true. You can take charge and find the resources at your school, whether it’s the writing center or a favorite professor, that will help you make your dreams come true.

 

2.       We shouldn’t be afraid to set out on our own personal “Road to Rio.” Blake’s goal – to compete in the 2016 Olympics – is a daunting one, but it’s also a realistic one given his hard work and dedication. Whether you are just starting college or starting a new year or semester, don’t be afraid to set high goals for yourself. Everyone has dreams that may seem intimidating, like competing in the Olympic Games ,  but  when you always aim for the “ gold” you will propel yourself farther than you would with more modest aims.

 Set your standards high and success will follow. Blake had to compete, and do well, in many lesser races before he could consider the Olympics, but he didn’t lose sight of his ultimate goal. Smaller successes, like navigating your first midterm exam, pave the way for big ones, like a great overall GPA. More than anything, Blake’s story shows that with a mix of passion, dedication, and support, we all can pursue our dreams, and have some great experiences along the way!