Be Proud of Your School/College
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Your school or college is not just an educational institution; it’s a part of your identity. Being proud of your school or college is not just a matter of sentiment; it’s a show of respect and gratitude. When you mention your alma mater in a document or during a conversation, take pride in it by using the full name of the institution, avoiding abbreviations. This simple act is your first tribute to the college that has played a significant role in shaping your life.
Be Proud of Your School/College: What You Can Do for Your Alma Mater
Whether your college is renowned or not, it holds a special place in your life. If you attended a prestigious college, its reputation can benefit you, but if it’s not highly ranked, you become a brand ambassador for the institution. Remember, when two brands interact, it’s the lesser-known brand that gains value. Your college or school is your “Alma mater,” which translates to “kind mother” in Latin. Just like a mother who nurtures her child, your college has raised and molded you. As you progress in life, you become an enterprise and a brand in yourself, and your college’s name is an integral part of your identity. Respect for your college is also a mark of your character, and that respect becomes associated with your institution.
Alumni Giving Back: A Duty and Privilege
Colleges and schools don’t ask for anything from their alumni; instead, they continue to support you even after you graduate. It’s the responsibility of alumni to give back to their educational institutions voluntarily, much like the way we care for our parents. Many successful individuals attribute their achievements to the springboard that their college provided. In gratitude, they contribute and make donations to various initiatives within their alma mater. These philanthropic gestures not only express contentment but also showcase deep gratitude towards the institution that played a vital role in their lives.
The Power of Alumni Contributions
The reputation and success of the best colleges often rest on the shoulders of their alumni. Surprisingly, it’s not just about the amount of money donated; it’s about the connection alumni maintain with their college. For example, prestigious institutions like Princeton, Williams, Carleton, and Dartmouth in the United States have nearly 50% of their alumni contributing to the college’s growth. In India, the Indian Institute of Technology, Gandhinagar (IITGN), saw approximately 55% of its alumni generously donating nearly Rs 70 lakh during the financial year 2022-2023. Similarly, BITS Pilani benefits from its active alumni network, BITSAA, which contributes millions of rupees to support the college.
Ways to Give Back and Stay Connected
If you’re unable to provide monetary donations, there are numerous ways to contribute and stay connected with your college. Consider engaging with the college community by mentoring students, conducting workshops, collaborating on projects, and participating in various activities. These activities encompass:
- Offering scholarships.
- Managing alumni databases.
- Organizing frequent gatherings.
- Establishing robust connections with industries.
- Assisting current students in their higher education pursuits or entrepreneurial endeavors.
- Collaborating to enhance the college’s infrastructure and facilities.
- Teaching specialized courses for a semester or two, if possible.
Being an active part of your college community doesn’t end when you graduate; it’s a lifelong commitment that enriches your network, earns you respect, and strengthens your ties to your alma mater.
