Throughout the semester, I have written with this column title. I know some of you are thinking, what does that even mean?
The idea started in the fall and throughout the year, the meaning has evolved. It started out while I was thinking about how much technology has influenced our lives and in a way, has transformed the way we live.

I thought about YouTube – a website where you can sing, dance and perform for the entire world to see. People from all over the world share these talents, and some have even become famous because of their talents. I personally use it to listen to music or watch hilarious videos.

Then there is Facebook-a website where you can post pictures, write on walls, and post videos for others to see. Every time I am by a computer, I unconsciously log into it. I check it three or four times (maybe I am being a little modest) per day. And finally, the iPhone is a phone where everything from music to the internet is at your fingertips.

First semester, I focused on self-awareness. One article was about voting, about self-awareness of our biases and others’ biases, as well. Then, I discussed having no regrets and compared it to the general election. Did John McCain have any regrets about the campaign that he ran? And, combined with self-awareness, I challenged people to have no regrets in life.

Then, this semester I decided to relate the topic to the Saint Louis University community more.

I focused on advocating for a 24-hour library and a smoke free SLU. (Oh, and everyone should use the pilot program for the 24-hour library!) Obviously, you don’t have to agree with these two significant changes for campus; however, the underlying message is that if you know what you need or want, then you have the power to change it.

I also talked about Natasha Richardson’s abrupt death and what that means.

Who knew so much could be discussed through just a few articles?

Right now I am in that end-of-the-year rush: papers, tests, labs and bad grades that need to be brought up.

So, going along with that theme, during this final week, my message is a simple one: don’t let the last couple of weeks slide. Only you are going to be held accountable for your work.

And, as the weather gets nicer, it is even harder to sit and study. But sometimes you just have to do what you have to do.
This year, my message was a mixed one.
Focus on who you are and want to be, and use that cognizance to change some things to make yourself a better person.

And so as this semester and school year wind down, I hope that you have enjoyed reading the column. I hope that you take a you-turn and empower yourself!

Samiksha Tarun is a
sophomore in the College of Arts and Sciences.