Saturday, March 24, 2012

The Big Event

Today, the students and faculty of Texas A&M University participated in the 30th Annual Big Event. This event started as a way for students to say “Thank You” to the surrounding community. It was a one-day service project where residents of Bryan and College Station would be shown appreciation for their continued support of Texas A&M students during their college careers. The Big Event was viewed as a way for students to show their appreciation by completing various tasks at area residents’ homes. After all… it was the least we could do to give one big thanks to our community on one big day each year. The Big Event’s Mission Statement: “Through service-oriented activities, The Big Event promotes campus and community unity as students come together for one day to express their gratitude for the support from the surrounding community.” And it did just that. It was an amazing success this morning. Our entire student body came together to selflessly serve and make a positive difference in our community. All types of organizations, friends, and leaders gathered in one location for one Big Event. The newly elected yell leaders made an appearance as well as several other important figures on campus. For the 30th Annual Big Event, they had over 17,000 volunteers. THAT ALONE IS INCREDIBLE! I participated in my first Big Event with MSC FISH and had the best group ever. I couldn’t have asked for better people to work with or a better person to serve. We worked together all day completing various tasks around and outside the house. While cleaning out the gutter system, it dawned on me how truly remarkable this event and this university is. Seventeen thousands students and faculty members woke up on a Saturday morning at 7 am to serve their community. There were no rewards, payments, or extra credit… These individuals were serving because they are a member of the Aggie family. I couldn’t have been more thankful to serve alongside my best friends from MSC FISH. I am constantly surrounded by people that make me want to become a better person. We love serving together and this morning was no exception. I attend the greatest university in the world with traditions, core values, and memories that extend much further than the classroom. One Big Day. One Big Thanks. One Big Event!