That phrase was needed to help me maintain my drive several times during the very busy happenings of this last week. Realizing that you must persevere when circumstances may seem tougher than others can help you stay motivated to achieve your goals.

As Stillwater woke up to huge snowflakes falling to the ground Monday morning, I made my way to my art history exam. Afterward I went to the Student Union to promote Cowboy Spirit at the OSU Student Foundation booth. When traffic picked up between classes, I attempted to pass out fliers and spread the word about the awesome philanthropic event.

Tuesday morning I had the second portion of my math test, which was shorter than the first, so it wasn't too bad! That evening consisted of the last StuFu meeting before the big event! We all turned in our tickets and picked up t-shirts to return to those who had been a part of the first 200 to purchase a ticket. After composing thank-you notes, two of the committees, including Donor Relations, met on campus to chalk and spread awareness about Cowboy Spirit! Then I headed back to my dorm to begin a full night of drawing. Although having worked on the assignment a majority of the previous weekend, I had a significant amount left to accomplish. I try to avoid pulling all-nighters, but inevitably they happen once in awhile. Luckily another classmate was also working on the project and it made the night more fun.

With the assignment complete, although I was tired, the day went well. I worked at the Cowboy Spirit booth again in the afternoon and got to bed early that night!

Thursday evening provided a full schedule, but was extremely rewarding. Dr. Mary Jo Self, associate professor from the College of Education, was generous enough to speak at our National Society of Collegiate Scholars meeting that evening. In honor of Integrity week, that was the topic of discussion. Her talk was truly thought provoking and ‘hit home’ in many ways. Dr. Self used several specific instances to describe integrity and its importance. Also stating that in the work place there's much else of equal prominence. The personal experiences she shared, along with her views on integrity really allowed us to witness her character and I respect her greatly. She recited a top ten list from the book “The Integrity Advantage: How Taking The High Road Creates A Competitive Advantage In Business” by Adrian Gostick, Dana Telford, and Mitt Romney. Then she ended with an inspiring quote, “If you have integrity, nothing else matters; if you don't have integrity, nothing else matters.” Here's a picture from the meeting.

After NSCS was over, Circle K International had a big meeting planned. Officer elections were held for the 2010-2011 year. We conducted Robert's Rules of Order and as candidates gave speeches, we voted on each position. I will be happy to serve as Secretary again next year! Here's a picture from the elections.

Friday finally arrived and I was very anxious for the Battle of the Bands to get underway! Passing out fliers in the afternoon by Chi-O Clock hopefully attracted a few more people to the event that night. When the time came to go out to the Tumbleweed, everything really came together. All the bands were great and attendance was more than double from last year's event. Beside the main attractions we had a few other special announcements; we were very fortunate to have Burns Hargis, president of the university, make an appearance and announcement at the event. Then Keith Anderson, special performer of the event, signed an OSU guitar that was given by a donor. The guitar will be auctioned off in the fall and all proceeds with go to the Cowboy Spirit scholarship fund! We were very grateful to have so many people come out and support such a great cause! Here are some pics from the event!

Saturday was spent studying for a major test at the beginning of next week. Due to my commitment for Sunday, I knew I would need to get as much done as possible on that day. Of course I had to take a break to watch the victorious bedlam game though!!! Go Cowboys!

Sunday I had a full day ahead of me as I went to Oklahoma City to work a wedding and reception with Jody Reed of J Reed Designs. In hindsight, due to adequately preparing for my test on Tuesday, I might not have worked the event, but the day was fun nonetheless. Not getting home until 1 a.m., the 13 hour day was hard work, but the money is always needed.

The week was definitely a test of my endurance, but there were great lessons and fun times that I will always remember!

GO POKES!