Be Good. Be Orange.

Submitted by Christian Chase

Students across the country have been taught to be passive, accepting, and tolerant of the status quo. We should place no value on this code of conduct nor spend any time entertaining it, as it provides no benefit to us or the world; it is in fact, a blockade to enlightenment.

Instead, Let’s be Ruthless

The term Ruthless has been defined numerous ways; for example, as one who shows no pity or compassion. However, the true meaning of Ruthless is characterized by the unafraid, proactive, and driven members of our society – all of which aspects progress the world’s well-being. At Oregon State University we are put into a position of leadership, and therefore it is our duty to exemplify these values as we would want others to do the same.

Ruthlessness fuels Oregon State University; it makes us unique; and it makes us compassionate. Personally, I have witnessed the sense of communion ruthlessness brings to our campus, and is the reason I write the following:

To be Orange, Go Against the Grain.

Be unafraid to challenge social norms. Speak up about renovations that need to be made or about internal affairs that are bothering you. We all have these things on our minds, so why not take the first step? Change starts from the bottom and makes its way up, so it’s our duty to set the ball rolling.

To be Orange, Strive For Perfection.

Be proactive in your success and take nothing less than deserved. This means achieving excellence and striving to stand out. The world is vast, so it takes a lot of effort to make a mark. Get work done on time, set priorities, and get involved. Leave no room for excuses.

To be Orange, Motivate Yourself.

Be driven in your hobbies and career. Take on challenges and find curiosity in the dull moments. Push the limits. Spark the light inside of you. Few people care about your success, so you must find the internal motivation to be compassionate to yourself. After all, how can you help others before helping yourself?

By going against the grain, striving for perfection, and finding motivation you are fulfilling the requirements needed to be deemed ruthless. Think back as a child: you had teachers, parents, athletes, and even celebrities that took on the role we just described. Now, it is our time, for we have matured and grown as members of Oregon State University.

This is our calling. Let’s change the status quo; set the tone for students to come; and lay the path for the world to follow.

Be Ruthless. Be Orange.