Commentary By Rick Rodriguez
It's tough Motivating Youth, but this year at Saint Mary's College's Oliver Hall, I had the privilege to speak to a crowd of about 250 youth, parents, Saint Mary's Alumni, and Saint Mary's administrators along with distinguished key note speaker Dr. Mario Rivas, Professor of Psychology Merritt College. The goal of the discussion, spearheaded by Saint Mary's Alumni Chris Major 83', was to offer a presentation to young people about the possibilities of attending college; inspire and motivate youth, and have the kids experience a day at Saint Mary's College!
Mickey McConnell, Saint Mary's Gaels Basketball & WCC Player of the year, greeted the youth with some opening words, and then a couple of Saint Mary's Alumni shared a few words of encouragement including their experience at Saint Mary's. I followed with my presentation! In my offering, I focused on my experiences of growing up in an environment where college was not necessarily an option. I told them that much of my experiences in life were unattainable until I worked on overcoming my fears. I discussed my fear of public speaking and by placing myself in uncomfortable positions how I was able to improve at speaking to crowds. I also told them about the limiting beliefs that had been placed on me or those that I came to believe until I chose to think differently!
I explained how I went into the real estate business earning my real estate license at 21 years old and working part time until committing to the business at 22 years old. And, how despite some pretty tough odds I managed to survive the ups and downs of a very tough business! I also shared some personally remarkable stories including getting my college degree from Saint Mary's College!
I asked the youth to become dreamers and believe that regardless of obstacles success could be attained by anyone. I told them that it didn't matter where you happened to live or are from. Success is available to everyone just as long as they are severely persistent; determined to succeed, and never ever quit!
Dr. Rivas followed with a similar presentation except from more of a scholar's point of view. He shared his real world experiences: growing up in a single parent home; with less than adequate resources, and without the necessary structure that most PH D's would likely have. His is a very remarkable story and this was very telling in his presentation. Dr. Rivas, differed with my position of overcoming fears; he suggests "owning your fears" and that your fears are always with you! It was an interesting point of view and one I had never heard.
I enjoyed getting back in front of a crowd and learned a little more about myself in this presentation. It is remarkable what kind of attention real life experiences can bring to an audience when shared with a deep sense of belief, passion, and a complete availing of the expereince!
After the discussion, I was given a generous ovation, and surprisingly received a mid-speech applause when I belted out some powerfully motivating words! It was a great experience and I look forward to my next opportunity! More importantly, it was very evident that collectively the discussion served in motivating youth to pursue their dreams!
ABOUT SAINT MARY'S COLLEGE
"Saint Mary's College of California is fundamentally designed to transform the way in which students understand themselves and engage with the world. We encourage you to embrace complexity, contemplate your place and purpose in the world, and undertake a searching examination of self, spirit and society. This is the type of place Saint Mary's College is and is all about!
Saint Mary's College is a Catholic, Lasallian, liberal arts college, and we're rooted in the life and work of Saint John Baptist de la Salle, founder of the Christian Brothers and the patron saint of teachers. Our traditions and heritage inform everything we do. At Saint Mary's you'll discover your capacity for transformative action as well as profound reflection."
Rick Rodriguez is a Real Estate Broker & Property Manager with 27+ years of experience in the real estate business. Rick, a Bay Area native and graduate of Saint Mary's College, services the San Francisco East Bay Area including the communities in the 680/580 freeway corridors, and Southern Alameda & Southern Contra Costa County. Contact Rick at rrodriguez@pacunion.com or (510) 326-4795.
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