Erin Hynes | Editor
July 19, 2023
On July 6, scholars piled into Johnson Theatre for the second installment of GSP Life, where RAs shared personal experiences and lessons. Scholars gained insight on the personal lives of their RAs and for many, learned that they are not alone in their personal struggles. Eleven people spoke at the event; Katelyn, Logan, Ray, Sasha, Keylee, Hayden, Maci, Zach, Josh, Patrick and Calder.
Some speeches were lighthearted adventures, like when Sasha spoke about the beauty of tangents or when Maci spoke about her core memory at a National Park. Others touched on emotional and raw topics such as Zach’s speech about embracing the autonomy of your own identity or Patricks’ speech on his own battles with mental health and the loss of loved ones. GSP Life is notorious for leaving scholars feeling a wide range of emotions, and July 6 was no exception. Many scholars walked in expecting small lighthearted stories and left with a sense of melancholy and contemplation.
Ray spoke to scholars about her complex family relationship, and ended by prefacing that, “My family are the people I picked up on the way.” Ray reminded scholars that love is found in unlikely places, not always under the roof of your home. Her speech was a vital reminder to all that no one has to earn love, it is something everyone deserves.
Calder spoke about his own GSP experience and how on family day many of his friends asked that Calder not meet their parents on family day. Calder mentioned that while good intentioned, his friends were asking him to disappear and hide himself. He ended his speech by telling scholars that they should never hide, but rather embrace themselves.
Patrick’s speech was the most emotional of the night. He spoke about his personal struggles with suicide, both his father’s and his own attempted suicide. Patrick opened up to scholars about his struggles, and showed everyone that even though it may not always seem that way, life is worth continuing. Many current scholars can relate in some form to Patrick’s struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts. Many who could relate found comfort in being told that they are not alone in this struggle, and that their life is worth living. Following Patrick’s speech, he was welcomed with a standing ovation by the crowd.
Each RA shared with scholars lessons they’ve learned in their own life, and reminded everyone of the value each person bestows. GSP Life allows for the ability to resonate with others in a room filled with open-minded possibilities.
