The Battalion: May 8, 2017

MONDAY, MAY 8, 2017 | SERVING TEXAS A&M SINCE 1893 | © 2017 STUDENT MEDIA | @THEBATTONLINE

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THE BATTALION | THEBATT.COM

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The Battalion | 5.8.17

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GRADUATION2017

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Congratulations to Joseph Pawley,

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Associates who receive this award are recognized for going above and beyond their normal duties to promote teamwork, unity, a positive attitude, kindness and exceptional customer service.

Thank you, Joseph, for all your hard work and dedication to the Landscape Construction team!

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Additions, deletions and changes to the University Student Rules may occur over the course of the year.

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Rule Student Conduct Code Student Conduct Proceedings

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Each student has the responsibility to be fully acquainted with and to comply with the Texas A&M University Student Rules. Student Rules can be found at http://student-rules.tamu.edu.

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There will be 14 commencement ceremonies beginning this week on Wednesday and finishing on May 27.

Texas A&M to give out more than 10,000 degrees 7,273 bachelor’s degrees, 1,903 master’s degrees to be issued

By Meredith McCown @meredithrhoads

2017 May 1-11, 2017 8:00am - 4:30pm Donate at the following locations: Community Center at White Creek - Parking Lot 32 by Haas Parking Lot 99B The Gardens - Southside Walkway The 12th Can Food Donation Drive - accepting canned goods and non-perishables at each of our locations

Hold onto a piece of

Aggieland

It’s not too late to order your copy

of the 2017 Aggieland yearbook.

The 115th edition of Texas A&M’s official yearbook will chronicle the 2016-2017 school year. Distribution will be Fall 2017.

If you haven’t, come by and

purchase a copy of the award-winning 2016 Aggieland yearbook, a 574-page photojournalistic record of the 2015-2016 school year.

For older Aggieland yearbooks go online to aggieland.tamu.edu or call 979-845-2613. You can also drop by the Student Media Office in Suite L400 of the MSC.

The Aggieland staff will be selling yearbooks at The Next Tradition Open House in the Clayton W. Williams, Jr. Alumni Center Thursday, May 11th 11am-7pm Friday, May 12th 11am-7pm Saturday, May 13th 10am-2pm Come by and purchase your Aggieland Yearbook!

Texas A&M University will present 10,074 degrees in undergraduate, graduate and professional programs at 14 commencement ceremonies expanding from Texas campuses to the branch in Doha, Qatar in coming weeks.

According to Nancy Sawtelle, director of Public Relations in the Office of the Provost, 90 percent or more of Texas A&M graduates will walk the stage. The first graduation ceremony will be held on May 10 and the last on May 27, with other dates in range between. Additionally, on May 12, approximately 112 members of the Corps of Cadets will be commissioned, the highest number of commissions since 1984 including Texas A&M Galveston.

Sawtelle said in comparison to the August and December graduation ceremonies, May is undoubtedly the largest in number.

“The May commencement is definitely the largest. I believe the number of ceremonies is an indicative comparison,” Sawtelle said. “The number of College Station-based ceremonies is seven for May compared to usually three or four in December and two or three in August.”

According to a media release from Sawtelle, the number of degrees being awarded this month will surpass previous semesters at A&M as well as the other universities throughout the state of Texas.

“Supported by growing enrollments, student success initiatives and timely graduation incentives, this May’s ceremonies will feature the highest number of bachelor’s degrees (7,273), master’s degrees (1,903), professional degrees (558) and doctoral degrees (339) for any one semester in the university’s — as well as the state of Texas’ — history,” Sawtelle said.

Member of the Corps of Cadets and political science senior Adam Knutson will graduate this Thursday with a U.S. Air Force commission as an Intelligence Officer. He said he will miss the traditions and the comradery, and will carry the values he’s cultivated in the Corps to the next stage in life.

“Definitely how to work under hard environments, how to adapt to things, and how to really work well with a team,” Knutson said. “You learn how to overcome trials, and it really helps you prepare for things in the future too.”

After her graduation next week, interdisciplinary studies senior Hannah Willard’s plans consist of teaching fourth grade at Wallace Elementary in Dallas. Willard said she will especially miss the relationships she has made during her time at A&M. “I’m going to miss the people and the traditions because those kind of go hand in hand, I feel like part of the traditions is that it’s such a family and everyone’s rooting for each other,” Willard said. “I think that’s what I’m going to miss the most- all the traditions, the comradery, but also, the people that I’ve met and the friendships that I’ve made.”

Regarding current students, Willard encouraged them to treasure their remaining time at the university.

“This is kind of cliché, but time really does fly by, so not letting it escape from you and really making the most of the time you have here,” Willard said. “Getting involved is how I made a lot of lasting friendships and made my experience at A&M so much better.”

While in the moment, university level school work can seem difficult, but nursing senior Elizabeth Stark charged students to not give up. Because of her time spent at the Health Science Center, she said feels prepared for her new job at the hospital and ready to take ownership of what she’s learned.

“In nursing, there are so many stressful and hard times that are going to come up in the hospital,” Stark said. “But then, there’s that one patient, or that one family, or employee that you work with that makes everything worth it.”

Stark said when given an opportunity, never let it slip through your fingers.

“I learned a lot about taking opportunities when they’re given to you because you’re always going to learn something,” Stark said.

“If you take it, you always learn something.

You can look back and be proud of yourself that you took on something that seemed daunting.”

Soak in each moment and embrace your years at A&M, Willard said.

“I just love A&M, I think it’s a really unique place. There’s definitely no other public school in the United States like it,” Willard said. “It’s a very amazing place to be a part of, so I’m very proud to be an Aggie and I think it’s something that we should all cherish.”

The university’s College Station commencement ceremonies will be broadcasted on KAMU-TV May 11 to 13.

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The Battalion | 5.8.17

PROVIDED

As senior class president, Claire Wimberly is a representative for the Class of 2017 and performs a variety of functions.

PROVIDED

Embrace all that A&M has to offer The Class of 2017 has a lot to be proud of

Hannah Wimberly is the 2016-2017 student body president. Her official duties concluded on April 21 during the campus Muster ceremony.

Be proud to be an Aggie Make time to participate in traditions, even if you’re busy Hannah Wimberly 16-17 Student Body President

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never wanted to believe people when they said that college would be the fastest four years of your life … But here I am, in May 2017, wondering where the heck the time has gone. It feels like just yesterday that I was a terrified freshman at my NSC, lost and looking for the Student Computing Center so I could register for PSYC 107 and MATH 141!

The Class of 2017 has experienced a lot of change in our time in Aggieland. We were the last class to experience football in “old” Kyle Field, we visited the bookstore in G Rollie White during our campus tours, we saw Johnny Football play, we experienced three consecutive years of the largest classes to come through Texas A&M, and saw a host of new developments in the city of College Station. And while many things changed during our time, just as much stayed the same — and that is something to be cherished. We stood proud and took part in traditions that are decades old. We fought for what is good and what is right, and what makes Texas A&M what it is. For the classes that continue on now — it is your duty and responsibility to do the same.

Above most anything else, I am thankful for my time in Aggieland. I am thankful for Texas A&M sports for being the most thrilling way to take years off my life, I am thankful for College Station’s seemingly endless options for fantastic tacos, I am thankful for the consistent reminders to all on Twitter that yes, you do have a protected turn lane off University onto Texas Avenue. But,

most importantly, I am thankful for the people that make this place what it is. The students that fill this campus every day with passion, enthusiasm and a lot of Good Bull. The Former students that support our university, are always willing to share an Old Army story or two, and that ultimately remind us to never forget where we came from. The professors and teaching assistants that challenged us to be, think and do more. These people, and many more, have enriched and forever changed my collegiate experience. Each and every one of us is better because of these people that have graced our lives — Aggies.

To those that are fortunate enough to have more time in Aggieland: Cherish it. Invest in the people around you. Go to that organization’s event, and meet new people. Try new things — really. Eat at that restaurant you drive past every day but have never thought to stop at (but always remember that Layne’s, Cane’s and Fuego will be there for you, too).

Attend every single tradition that you possibly can and, yes, you can make time for them in the midst of your busy life. Send a thank-you note to the people that have impacted you the most in college. Take in those beautiful College Station sunsets that we all love. Above all, remember just how lucky you are to be an Aggie. Take pride in Texas A&M and all that it stands for, and do everything that you can to leave this place better than when you found it — it is truly the least we can do for the place that has given us so very much.

Thank you, Aggieland.

Hannah Wimberly is a human resource development senior and 2016-2017 student body president

Claire Wimberly 2017 Senior Class President

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ho would have thought that May 2017 would come so quickly?

For the Texas A&M Class of 2017, it seems like just yesterday we were taking our first steps onto campus and into the world that is college. As cliché as it is, four years go by faster than anyone can imagine. I would like to take this opportunity to talk about a few things — the Class of 2017’s journey here, some words on tradition and a few general “college tips.”

I have been fortunate to serve as the 2017 Class President for the last three years, and it has been a pleasure and an honor to establish the vision for our class in relation to class related traditions. To sum up our years here from this perspective, I can come up with one word that holistically encapsulates everything we’ve done — and that’s “transformation.” Our sophomore year, we turned Pull Out Day from an event that had less than 100 attendees the year before, to an event with more than 1,000 attendees, sold more than 900 T-shirts and raised more than $5,000 for the Class Gift fund (the first time in history that Pull Out Day ever raised money, instead of losing money, for the Class Gift). Our junior year, we saw the first Junior E-Walk with no elephants. While this was a big change, no doubt about it, we stuck it out and were part of one of the largest Junior E-Walks in history. And finally our senior year. We participated in an Elephant Walk that ended up on Kyle Field for the first time in years, and took part in the first ever Ring Dance to be held in the Hall of Champions.

While the final numbers are yet to be solidified, it is likely that the Class of 2017 will end our four years with almost $50,000 in our Class Gift fund — the largest in several years — and all because of the passion and participation of the Class of 2017.

A now for a few words on tradition. One

of my favorite things to do when I talk to freshmen is ask, “How many of you are at Texas A&M because of the traditions?” Inevitably, most of them will acknowledge that this is the case. However, it’s not enough for all of us to just talk the talk — we need to walk the walk. Don’t just say how much you love Texas A&M because of the traditions, take part in them. Don’t just change your profile picture for an event, go to it. Talk to your friends, embrace all that A&M has to offer, because we are a university like no other. We all had our pick of universities, but we chose to come here. Don’t let what sets this school apart become a thing of the past.

It is our duty, for ourselves, former students and future students, to ensure that the traditions of Texas A&M live on for days to come.

Don’t just say, “Someone else will do it,” because if everyone says that, who is left to the task? We have a responsibility as Aggies, and the magnitude of such responsibility is both exciting and profound.

Finally, just some general tips on college life from an old senior. I definitely don’t know it all, but here it goes. Put your phone in your pocket when you ride the bus or walk across campus. Take in the beauty of the school that we are privileged to attend.

Go to a random sporting event on a weekday when you have nothing to do, and take a friend you haven’t seen in a while. Participate in traditions. Say, “Howdy.” Cultivate the greatness in someone younger than you, and watch with pride when they accomplish things you never could. Pour yourself into friendships, and don’t forget to call the people back home.

To the Texas A&M Class of 2017 — every time you look down at that piece of Aggie gold on your finger, I hope you look at that little number “17” with pride, because we earned it and will forever be linked because of it. Thanks for the best four years, Texas A&M. Gig ‘em.

Claire Wimberly is a management senior and senior class president

Wilder: My time at A&M has prepared me for years to come Chris Wilder 16-17 Head Yell Leader

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ggies, as my time as a student here at Texas A&M comes to a close, I’ve begun to think of all that Aggieland has meant to me. As a first-generation Aggie, my real exposure to the Spirit began during high school when I went to my first Fightin’ Texas Aggie football game. Witnessing the Yell Leaders at Midnight Yell Practice, the Corps during their march in before the game and the 12th Man stand and yell for the entire game turned out to be an incredible first taste of Aggieland. I knew it was special.

As I began to learn about traditions like Silver Taps, Aggie Muster, The Big Event and the Aggie Ring — among others — it was apparent to me that Texas A&M truly was a place I could call home for four years.

My advice to anyone reading this: Enjoy every moment. From the best memories you make in college to the times you wish you could disappear when nothing is working out in your favor, take every opportunity as a chance to learn and grow. When you feel like you’re on top of the world, appreciate everything you have and everyone who has helped you get to where you are. When you feel like nothing is going right, attack life with a positive mindset with the knowledge that difficult times will pass. The way you handle difficult times will be something you carry with you forever. My time at Texas A&M has helped to develop me into the man I am today and the man I want to be someday. I want to be a better man, brother, son, Aggie, follower of Christ and hopefully even a husband and father someday. God has placed Texas A&M in my life and helped to equip me for all that is to come. Is the future uncertain? Always. But I have confidence in my God and in the way He has shaped in the last four years. I am ready for the next chapter because He has prepared me.

I am truly thankful for my family and all they’ve done for me and for the friendships I’ve made here that will last a lifetime. I could not be more grateful for my time here in Aggieland, and I wish everyone the best.

Thanks, Gig ‘Em, and God Bless!

Christ Wilder is an economics senior and senior yell leader

Cassie Stricker — THE BATTALION

Chris Wilder has been a Yell Leader for two years and served as the 2016-2017 Head Yell Leader.

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The Battalion | 5.8.17

ONE LAST TIME Time to say goodbye, but more importantly, thank you Sam King 16-17 Battalion Editor-In-Chief

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hroughout my time at The Battalion, I’ve written more than 150 stories and worked on almost 300 papers as an editor, including 114 as editor-in-chief.

I’ve spent all six of my semesters as a student working for The Battalion.

My first story ran in the second paper of my freshman semester.

I’ve written thousands of words, interviewed dozens of people, worked countless hours and skipped a few classes (sorry, mom).

But my time is up. These are the last 900 or so words I’ll write for The Battalion. This is my last paper.

Writing this column feels like a trap, every word bringing me closer to the end of my time as a student. With each letter I type, each word I write, I can feel my heart rate rising, my stomach sinking.

I’m checking my word count periodically, and as the number grows, so does my disappointment.

Because this isn’t just another story — it’s my last one.

It’s the last time I’ll stare at a blank Google Doc, the prospect of telling the stories of the student body and school I love so much making me smile.

It’s the last time my editorial staff will read my byline, or struggle to come up with a headline for my story.

It’s the last time I’ll write from the hard-earned authority of editor-in-chief of the revered tradition and respected publication that is The Battalion.

But I’ve already wasted 220 or so words dwelling on the finality of this column, and space is precious, so let’s move on.

As a student operating on a three-year graduation plan, I always knew my time here was limited, shorter than most of my peers. And at first, I was grateful for that. As someone who had no idea what Texas A&M was outside of the stereotypes I’d heard in Dallas, I was not excited for the prospect of spending three years at a farming school.

Frankly, it was about two and a half years too many as far as I was concerned.

But with graduation now just days away and those hours passing faster than any of my core classes ever did, I find myself desperate for more time. More time spent chatting with Aggies who were passionate about making a difference. More time spent interviewing students with interesting stories. More time spent in the almost-basement of the MSC working with the most talented and caring people I’ve ever met.

I owe a lot to The Battalion: My best friends, my practical skills, the leadership abilities I’ve gained. But if there’s one thing I could do without, it’s the dread that lies in the pit of my stomach,

whispering maliciously, “You’ll never find something this good again.”

Because how can I? It doesn’t seem feasible to me that I’ll ever have as supportive of a network, or as much fun or enjoyment in a job again. There can’t possibly be another place as amazing as Aggieland and the people who live here.

Logically I know that thousands have already gone on to have wonderful lives after leaving Aggieland, and I’m sure I will too — Texas A&M and The Battalion have set me on a good path for that.

But nonetheless, the fear of the unknown, the lack of a guarantee is breaking my heart.

I only have a few hundred words left — my fingers have gone cold, my eyes are misty. Just enough space to foolishly attempt to adequately thank a few people who have made a particular impact on my time at A&M. Mom and Dad, thank you for supporting me in everything I’ve undertaken; for not laughing outright when I set my sights on journalism as the industry crashes around me. Mom, thanks for the daily phone calls that were sometimes my only tie to reality. Dad, thanks for the after-dinner conversations about leadership. You two have been my biggest cheerleaders and I feel invincible to have you on my side.

Katy, you’re so much more than my managing editor, you’re my partner and best friend. Every decision I’ve — we’ve — made this year has felt like the right one because of your sound judgment and support. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again for posterity’s sake: I literally could not and would not have done this without you.

To my staff, I cannot express the pride I feel when I look back at the papers we’ve published this year, the stories we’ve told, the memories we’ve made. You taught me what it means to be a good leader and how to trust in the abilities of others.

To my adviser, Doug Pils, thank you for always being there for me. I can’t imagine The Battalion without your guidance, the red marks all over the paper the next day or the constant reminder to be “training your replacement.” Take pride in the fact that you’ve impacted a generation of students who will remain grateful that you pushed them toward excellence.

To my fellow Aggies, thank you for taking a bitter two percenter and turning her into a red ass Ag who whoops as loud as the rest of them and will wear her Aggie Ring with pride.

I could write pages and pages, fill papers with all the people who deserve my thanks. But my word count is approaching and with it my time to move on, too. So it’s with a heavy but enormously grateful heart that I’ll write my last words as a student and Battalion staff member: Thanks and gig ‘em.

Sam King ‘17 is a Communications major and Editor-in-chief at The Battalion

Sam King has worked at The Battalion since she was a freshman and served as the 2016-2017 editor-in-chief.

Alexis Will —THE BATTALION

Brian O’Hara: ‘Be a leader of character’ Good leadership is more than the measurable actions, it’s defined by something more intangible

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exas A&M seeks to develop leaders of character, dedicated to serving the greater good. Through transformative experiences — from the Corps of Cadets to the Memorial Student Center to undergraduate research and many others — Aggies tout leadership as one of the defining qualities of who we are. But how do we define the success of a leader? What is the greater good that we are called to serve?

More often than not, we will reflect on what we have done as evidence of leadership. Whether it is legislation, initiatives or programs, we define success as the number of achievements we have collected. Or worse, we define leadership by the positions we carry. Despite all the accolades or recognition a leader receives, I believe they are as much defined by what they fail to do. The moments that we hope will fade away, hope that nobody noticed, those are the moments that should weigh heavily on a leader. Because what kind of character does a leader have if they do not stand up for others in need? It’s the moments where nobody is watching, where there is no personal benefit, where it’s easier to not do anything, which should define our leaders.

Determining the direction forward is arguably more important.

If we are not realizing a future that includes every person, regardless of their background or differences, then there is not real change. There are students, now more than ever, who need leaders to build an Aggie Family that includes them, because

many have never been part of that vision. We need leaders who are empathetic, who are listeners and who are empowering those around them. The path to this collective good is not one that any individual, staff or student, can set. We need to be more responsive as an institution to the voices of all students when charting this direction. Through referendums, forums and the encouragement of student expression in all forms, these are the ways in which the greater good is reached.

As we say goodbye to Aggieland, I am humbled to have served this institution, its students, and to, more importantly, be part of the Aggie Family. There are a great number of things that we have to do in order to build a better university — from financial transparency to accessible student services to campus safety — but I know that we have leaders who will rise to the challenge. This charge is not for a select few, instead it is for every student on campus. Be a leader of character, who stands up for others and doesn’t back down. Be a leader that works toward the greater good, who is inclusive and understands that diversity doesn’t divide, it strengthens.

Thank you for your commitment to leadership, in both big ways and in small ways. These past four years have been a blessing, from traditions to friendships, I couldn’t have imagined how my life would be changed by Texas A&M. If there is any advice that I have it is this: Treasure every moment that you have on campus while there’s still time. Gig ‘Em. Brian O’Hara is a political science senior and 2016-2017 MSC President.

Brian O’Hara will graduate this week with a degree in political science. O’Hara served as the 2016-2017 MSC President, and will be succeeded by Annie Carnegie.

PROVIDED

Brian O’Hara 16-17 MSC President

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The Battalion | 5.8.17

Be grateful for challenges College isn’t easy, but the people in Aggieland make it worth it Katy Stapp 16-17 Battalion Managing Editor

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Katy Stapp is the 20162017 managing editor and previously served as the summer editor-in-chief.

his past Friday I was walking back to the newsroom from my last college final. Obviously I had some pep in my step — college was over and my life was about to begin, again.

As I walked past Rudder Theatre, I made eye contact with a guy walking in the opposite direction.

As most people do, I thought nothing of it. But as he passed me, he yelled, “Hey, you, high five” and reached out his hand. I smiled and high-fived him, and he said, “Have a wonderful day,” and I said, “Same to you.”

If I could sum up my time in Aggieland in one experience, that’d be it (to the guy who high-fived me — thanks for making my day and for being the inspiration for this column).

Aggies like to help, in small ways like lending a high five to a stranger, and in big ways. On multiple occasions during my five years on this campus, I’ve seen people drop everything for someone in need.

Once, my car broke down on campus and not one, not two, but four people stopped to help me. One of them was late for an exam just to help me push my car someplace safe.

I’ve seen people literally run to a door to open it for someone (my mom always says she’s never had to open a door herself in College Station). I’ve seen people hand out free snacks during finals week, or even just free hugs. I’ve seen strangers wrap their arms around each other and sway back and forth, or jump up and hug one another when the Aggies score a touchdown.

I’ve also seen people show selflessness in more profound ways, like standing silent and motionless for students we’ve lost, even in the pouring rain, for Silver Taps. I’ve seen people fall to their knees after seeing thousands of students standing together in the small hours of a November morning to remember the 12 who died in 1999. I’ve seen thousands upon thousands of dollars raised in a matter of hours for Aggies whose families have lost something, or for people who can’t afford an Aggie Ring.

Just walking around campus offers the opportunity to witness the Aggie Spirit everybody’s always talking about. But in my four years at The Battalion, I’ve been fortunate enough to see it a little more up close. Not just in the incredible people we write about and the causes they champion, but in the people who’ve come through the newsroom to tell those stories.

To the small team of Aggie journalists I spent my last four years with — thank you. Thank you for making work in the wee hours of the morning feel like a party, thank you for standing by me during some of my most challenging moments, thank you for pushing me every day to work harder, to be better, and thank you for giving me something to immerse myself into.

I have a few other well-deserved thank you’s I’d like to dole out — bear with me.

First and foremost to my parents, whose unending love and support has granted me the rare and valuable opportunity to discover myself in college without having to worry about money. I am who I am because of you, and I hope you know that each day that I worked tirelessly studying for an exam or writing an article, I looked to your example for guidance, especially during my darkest hours.

To my siblings — thank you for being the driving force behind all that I do. I hope I have set the kind of example you want to follow.

To my friends — I don’t know how you put up with me each day, but I’m eternally grateful that you do. Thank you for challenging me, making me laugh and never giving up on me.

To my cat, Gatsby (yes, I’m serious) — thank you for showing me the true meaning of unconditional love, and for your warm, early morning snuggles.

To the people who’ve taught me — thank you for shaping my mind into something I’m proud of.

To the people who’ve hurt me (and there’s a few) — thank you for bringing to light the strongest version of me. Because of you, I can conquer anything.

I came to this campus with few expectations except to leave behind the version of me that I was in high school (like, way behind), and to enjoy every second. I can say one of those things is entirely true.

You won’t enjoy every second, because college was not meant to be a fun, four-year game. It’s meant to challenge you mentally, physically and emotionally in ways you’ve never been challenged. Be grateful for those challenges, because you will emerge, not unscathed, but stronger.

Learn all you can. Put yourself out there. Be brave, be bold. Push yourself every day. Recognize opportunity and have the courage to take it. Help others. Appreciate the struggles other people are going through. Know you’re not alone. I could go on all day with advice I’d give to people who are either about to go to college or who are currently muddling through it. But Sam says I only have 1,000 words, so I’m going to have to cut this short.

When I walk across the stage in Reed Arena Thursday, I will carry with me the memories of nights spent in the company of my desk lamp, of sitting at a table pitching stories with some of the most talented people I know, of interviewing campus’ most amazing people and telling their stories, of encouraging an already brilliant group of eighth graders to go to college, of triumphing over some of the most painful experiences of my life. And most importantly, I will carry with me the feeling of knowing that I have 60,000 friends standing behind me, cheering me on.

My last thank you is to you, Aggieland. Thank you for the adventure of a lifetime.

Katy Stapp is an English senior and managing editor at The Battalion

Alexis Will —THE BATTALION

Joseph Hood: ‘Keep the spirit’ Students bear the responsibility to uphold the spirit, not to pass the blame Joseph Hood 16-17 Student Senate Speaker

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n my tenure in the Student Senate, I have watched the Spirit “die” at A&M more times than I can count.

It “died” when the seal was changed for marketing purposes.

It “died” when key student services were moved to West Campus.

It “died” when Walton became co-ed, when we were asked to stay off the wood during football games and when the student body radically expanded in the last five years.

Many times when a change has happened on campus, we stood against those changes and argued that they were irrevocable, that with the change of a seal or a building name we were going to lose what makes Texas A&M special. This is not unreasonable. If we do not guard what makes us special, and do so zealously with the obsession only an Aggie can muster, then there is always the real danger that we will forget who we are in a quest to be someone we are not.

But in my four years I have learned that we underestimate the Spirit. It is far stronger than words or physical spaces or university policies.

To argue that it is shifts the responsibility of its preservation to others. It is to look at the change around us and say, “Of course Old Army is dead! An administrator has changed this university rule, or the Board of Regents has forced change upon us.” With such an attitude, we can excuse the role we play. But there is no Texas A&M University without its Fightin’ Texas Aggies.

This attitude is not isolated to College Station. Nationally we are in a climate of blame, everything going wrong is because of the actions of those that we put in power, and not on the shoulders of the very people who put them there. It is as if we have collectively forgotten that our government is of the people, and as such is a reflection of who we are as a society. Do you believe that our politics are petty, and that the national dialogue is toxic?

A democracy is a mirror for its people, and

FILE

Joseph Hood served as the 2016-2017 Student Senate speaker and has worked on various pieces of legislation during his time in Student Senate.

we would do well to consider as much in the coming years as we go out and do what Aggies do and change the world. I know I will.

But I digress (as those of you who know me know I often do, and are probably rolling your eyes at my self-indulgent pontification).

As I say goodbye, what I ultimately want to say to my Aggie Family is that keeping the Spirit is ultimately dependent on how every Aggie chooses to live their life. The only way the Spirit will die is if current and former students let it, and the only way to let it die is to deny our own responsibility in keeping it. As long as we uphold our core values and Honor Code and look to serve our fellow man over

ourselves, the Spirit will live on.

Do not get me wrong; I am concerned for our school. I am concerned that we have outgrown our ability to form a cohesive community, that as the cost of higher education continues to increase many students will be priced out of attending, and that little changes like the prioritization of hotel construction over key student services and class space will slowly kill what makes us so unique.

But I went to Campus Muster and listened to Ed Davis ’67 tell story after story about Ags who went to Vietnam to serve their country.

I look back at the entire class of 1917, who canceled their graduation to enlist in the fight

for freedom. Every single man. In the same tradition, Aggies today are going to serve their nation in every field and capacity.

No, the Spirit has not “died.” It is alive and burning in our hearts today, with every Whoop, every Howdy and every note of Silver Taps floating across Academic Plaza. Do not forget it, and please do not take it for granted. I know I haven’t.

Keep the Spirit.

Joseph Hood is the speaker of the 69th session of Student Senate.

GRADUATION2017

6

The Battalion | 5.8.17

FILE

Quarterbacks Conner McQueen (right) and Trevor Knight sing the War Hymn after defeating UTSA in November.

Dreams come true

PROVIDED

Senior Colton Wayne served as the 2016-2017 Interfraternity Council President.

Stepping onto Kyle Field each Saturday was indescribable

College flies by

Conner McQueen Quarterback

Get out of your comfort zone, make memories Colton Wayne IFC President

M

y time here at Texas A&M University has had its challenges and difficulties, but has also given me incredible opportunities. Opportunities to learn, to grow and to serve this great campus. Upon my arrival, Greek Life was still relatively small and a less visible aspect of the student experience available at our university. There was not a great deal of exposure to Greek Life for all students on campus, and we did not always highlight the amazing things we did throughout the year.

However, I know this has changed along with the culture of Greek Life, as barely a day goes by when I walk through campus and don’t see a banner for a charity event, or get a flyer for a philanthropy concert or competition. Our presence among the student body has increased tremendously.

Greek students not only participate in their own organizations, but can also be found in most student organizations on campus in leadership and membership roles. I believe since becoming a part of the Board for the Interfraternity Council and most recently president this past year, we have been able to grow Greek Life tremendously and in the best possible direction. Being a part of this organization and the fraternity experience gave me the opportunity to meet men within my own chapter and among the many other chapters on campus who will remain lifelong friends. I will always be proud of my time here as a brother of Sigma Alpha Epsilon, and I know I am a better man because of it.

Aside from my time and memories as a fraternity man, there are so many Aggie

traditions and events that I will miss. It is true that as a former student, you can always come back to Aggieland and rejoin the Aggie family. Yet, there is something unique about being in the moment, in the experience and living it every day as a student.

Getting my Aggie Ring, tailgating game days, walking onto Kyle Field on Saturdays — all of these made Texas A&M special to me. No one can truly ever prepare a freshman for what comes at them during college.

Four years ago, when a friend told me this time in my life would fly by, I couldn’t believe them and so I didn’t take much stock in their advice. Looking back now, he couldn’t have been more correct. It really does seem like just yesterday I was sleepily trudging into Heldenfels for a Biology 111 class filled with 300 people. Now, I still sleepily trudge into classes with 30 people, and I wonder where the time has gone.

So, although no one really asked for it, the best advice I can give to Aggie students is embrace this moment. Don’t just go through the motions and attend class, study, and go to bed. Experience things you wouldn’t normally do, try things that make you feel scared or uncomfortable, meet people outside of your comfort zone. Make friends, make mistakes, make memories.

Live. Because very soon, this time of exploration will have passed you by. Like me, you will walk across that stage and out the door before you know it. You will always be a part of the Aggie family, but only a short portion of that time will be spent here in College Station as a student. Like my friend told me not so long ago, time flies so you better make the most of it.

Colton Wayne is a zoology senior and 2016-2017 Interfraternity Council President

A

s my last football season came to a close, I was asked how I wanted to be remembered as a Texas A&M Football player and as an Aggie. I was not quite sure how to answer the question at the time, but as I put more thought into it, one word kept running through my mind: Passion. My passion for the game of football, more specifically Texas A&M Football, has been a driving factor in my life for as long as I can remember. My grandmother has pictures of me still in the hospital wearing a Texas A&M onesie with the caption, “Kyle Field, here I come!” written underneath it. I attended my first Aggie football game before I could even walk. Needless to say, when Coach Sumlin gave me an opportunity to join the team in June of 2012, he had made my lifelong dream come true.

I cannot begin to describe the adrenaline rush I felt the first time I walked behind those drums and ran through the smoke on to Kyle Field. It was the same adrenaline rush I felt on Senior Night, along with the other 30 times I had the honor of stepping foot on Kyle Field.

Regardless of how big or small the game was, my attitude and approach was the exact same.

I was going to wear my emotions on my sleeve and give the team everything I had, which as some may note, has attributed to my animation on the sidelines through the years.

For me, it was never about playing time or recognition. I just wanted to win and see my teammates succeed. My parents taught me that if you are truly passionate about something, your individual role should not matter as long as you are contributing to the whole.

Whether I was the scout team wide receiver, scout team quarterback, placekick holder or second/third/fourth/fifth-string quarterback on game day, I was driven by the desire to win football games. I would be lying if I said I never had second thoughts about my position

on the team, but as I became one of the older members of the team, I grew into a significant leadership role. Coach Sumlin knew how passionate I was about this football program, and he saw how important it was to me. He also awarded me a scholarship in August of 2014, which still goes down as my best day ever. Thanks, Coach. That was pretty neat.

I am going to miss the 12th Man. Nothing better epitomizes the Aggie Spirit than 50,000 students standing and yelling in unison, ready for their number to be called. That support and unity is what makes game day on Kyle Field an experience like no other. And when the fourth quarter starts or the clock hits zero for an Aggie victory, and the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band strikes up The Aggie War Hymn, nothing can replace that feeling.

Just writing about it gives me chills.

I could not write this without mentioning the Mays Business School, for the professors and classmates I have had over the last five years have had an equally substantial impact on my life. I am thankful for those individuals, not just for providing me with two degrees from the Professional Program of Accounting (and sleep deprivation), but for challenging me to set big goals and providing me with tools to achieve them.

The friendships and memories that I have made during my tenure as a student are ones that I will hold on to for the rest of my life.

I know this is cliché, but I can honestly say that so much of who am I, and who I will become, can be attributed to this great university. It provided me with the best years of my life, and it molded me for the years to come.

It challenged me to dream big, and it made many of my dreams come true. Words cannot explain my excitement for the next big journey in my life to begin after I walk across that stage, and I can only wish that journey brings me back through College Station one day. Thank you, Aggieland.

Conner McQueen is an accounting senior and quarterback for Texas A&M

Senior cadets say last farewell at Final Review

By Savannah Mehrtens @SJMehrtens

Cassie Stricker — THE BATTALION

During Final Review students in the Corps of Cadets move into their new ranks within the Corps and receive their new uniform, including their boots for incoming seniors.

The click of new boots and the smell of cigars filled the atmosphere of the Corps of Cadets Final Review on Saturday with thousands in attendance.

Final Review marks the day when cadets change to their new ranks in the Corps. Cadets follow a series of representative points throughout the day beginning with their first review on Simpson Drill Field, then forms and step­-offs leaving the field, additional forms and reaffirmation of the Cadet Oath and second review.

Tyler Nelson, sophomore in Company 01, upgraded from a black belt to a white belt, but said he has his eyes set on his senior boots.

“It’s a whole new set of responsibilities, and a whole new set of privileges, and a whole new lifestyle that comes with getting done with this ceremony,” Nelson said. “I know for my family it’s one step closer to getting my boots and graduating, so it’s a super big deal to get to see me move on from being a sophomore and pisshead to being a white belt. It’s one step closer to it all being over, but it’s one step closer to succeeding in my goal of being a senior and graduating from Texas A&M, too. It’s a pretty big day, in all honesty.”

Sheila Nelson said she was very proud of her son Tyler, and she was glad to see him one step closer to receiving his boots.

“Every time I see my son in his uni-

form, it makes me more proud to see him move up every year and getting one step closer to getting his senior boots is really exciting,” Sheila said.

Caroline Boomer Karels, grandmother of engineering freshman Nathan Karels, said although Nathan’s dad is in the military stationed in Germany and unable to attend, it was an exciting event to experience for the first time.

“He’s a freshman, so this is all new to us still,” Karels said. “It’s overwhelming, it really is, but it’s beautiful. He is doing real good in his studies, so we are happy for that too.”

Shelley Kellner Smith, Class of 1995, said it was special to see her son, Grant Smith, a biochemistry junior and newly promoted to first sergeant of A-2, during Final Review.

“We like being here for numerous reasons, one of which is that it’s always been home to me, but as wonderful as it is to be a student here, it’s even greater to see your kid be a student here,” Smith said.

Reed Russel’s brother, Blake, was proud to see him receive his boots and new uniform at Final Review. A civil engineer in the Air Force, Blake Russel said the Final Review ceremony was well known in the air force academy.

“It’s actually really cool to see the Corps of Cadets because everyone actually knows it in the Air Force,” Russel said. “Air Force Academy is the biggest military school DOD wide, but they all talk about A&M and they all know this tradition.”

GRADUATION2017

7

The Battalion | 5.8.17

CONGRATS, GRADUATES!

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This is the last issue of The Battalion for the spring 2017 semester.

The first edition of summer publications will be released June 13.

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