The signature motto of The University of Texas is “What starts here changes the world.” When I first came to UT, I felt that this was just a showy saying with little substance behind it. I am starting to realize, however, that this statement is truly the cornerstone of our university.

When most students decide to continue their education at Texas, they do so not only because they want a great education, but  because they want to matter in the world. The University of Texas gives them the appropriate means to accomplish their goals.

Every student I have met here wants to matter in the world. They are all extremely ambitious people with big goals for their futures. The majority of MPA students take on leadership roles in organizations on campus, participate in company networking sessions, sign up for interviews and mock-interviews, and work hard to get excellent grades in their coursework to set themselves up for a fantastic job. UT students invest their time and energy in things that will give them the opportunity to matter in the world.

I continually share with my parents all of the things McCombs and the MPA program offer to maximize my future opportunities. My mom said, “Ally, it’s a wonderful program and it is great that you are focused on your future, but don’t neglect to focus on the present and enjoy this time of your life.” It wasn’t until August of this past year that I understood the true meaning of what she was telling me.

The first thing I understood about focusing on the present was that I would only be in college at UT with all of my friends for a finite period of time, whereas I will be working forever. It only makes sense to take advantage of everything the University offers while you are a student: going to football and basketball games, attending campus events, and spending lots of time with friends.

This past semester I had a deeper realization about what she meant. One of my best friends, Richard Holland, passed away at the end of August in a terrible accident. It was a tragic end to such a promising young life and my friends and I miss him every day. My friend Richard taught me and everyone whose life he touched that it is never too early to make a difference in the world and to be someone who matters.  I think everyone (especially MPA’s) can learn from Richard’s example. As important as it is to make sure to network, participate in student organizations, and excel in the classroom in preparation for the future, I think it is even more important to never forget that we have today and to strive to be someone who matters in the world now.

I believe most people are familiar with the phrase carpe diem (seize the day). The full phrase is actually Carpe diem, quam minimum credula postero –

“Seize the Day, putting as little trust as possible in the future.”

What I get from this line is to never get caught up in trying to plan the future because it’s impossible to control. Today is the day we can make a difference in someone’s life, and there is absolutely nothing stopping you from doing so.

This post is in honor of Richard Holland, one of the best friends I have ever had. If you are interested in finding out more about this wonderful McCombs student, brother, son and friend, and learning more about the memorial scholarship established in his honor, please visit http://www.rjhollandscholarship.org/.