Young's impact is still felt

I was blessed with a father who was the ideal role model, and he's always taught me the importance of not revering any one person; however there exist certain people throughout my life who have had a profound impact; Andrew Young has always been a part of this group.

Last year, when I first heard of his visit to campus, I marked the date on my calendar. His accolades include being a prominent member of the Civil Rights Movement, mayor of Atlanta and U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, but during his visit to campus what stuck out the most was his sense of compassion and humility.

His eloquence and ability to capture the minds of his audience was more than impressive, as he spoke on a variety of topics, that were pertinent to college students.

As I sat a few feet away from a man who in some indirect way, gave me the ability to succeed in a college environment, I noticed a faint sigh and a shrug of his shoulders prompting me to ask, "Long day?" and with a reserved smile, he told us in the room how he had spent the morning in Washington, D.C. at a breakfest, in which Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and President Barack Obama spoke.

He didn't brag or seem boastful of his morning, which to the average person would be extraordinary. He merely spoke about it as if such events were commonplace.

Understanding the value of education, I was curious about his thoughts on education. He responded with an answer that will stay with me for many years to come, "I didn't get the best grades…I was always reading, writing and seeking knowledge outside of the classroom."

As I have entered the winter of my college career his words speak to me and I hope to many of my peers, as we must seek knowledge not just inside the confines of a classroom, but in the entire world around us.