We all complain about those 8 o’clock classes in the morning that we struggle to get to, but imagine if we didn’t have the chance to go to college and follow our dreams. Women have come a long way since the passing of the 19th Amendment, which gave women the right to vote. In today’s society, females are no longer expected to stay home with their children and prepare dinner for their working husbands. Instead, more young women are receiving higher education at universities across the country, and pursuing their dreams.
The female students at James Madison University are no different. When the university opened in 1908 as a women’s college, the “academic offerings included only today’s equivalent of technical training or junior college courses.” Now in 2011, JMU offers 108 degree programs on the bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist, and doctoral levels.
With a female population of 60%, the girls here are working hard to receive their degrees and make an impact on the community. I had the opportunity to sit down with two JMU students who are living life in the fast lane who gave me insight on how crazy life can get.
JMU sophomore, Rahath Alam, is in no way “taking it easy” this year and is definitely an inspiration to young women. Rahath double majors in Media Arts and Design and Communication Studies and also has a minor in Art. And while some students might not be able to decide on just one major, Rahath believes her extensive course work will open many doors for her.
When she came to JMU, she “had a hard time deciding on just one major. [She] wanted to be able to have options when [she] graduated and not be stuck in one career path.” She also participates in many campus organizations such as Student Government Association, Muslim Students Association, and will be working as an Orientation Peer Advisor for the 2011-2012 school year.
Although being so busy keeps life interesting, Rahath says that, “having to decide between hanging out with friends and doing work” can be a huge obstacle. Another JMU student, junior Priyali Patel understands what Rahath is going through as well. With a major in Health Sciences and a minor in Biology, Priyali has her work cut out for her.
While doing her best to do well in her courses, Priyali is also a member of Kijiji, Student Government Association, and Spreading Positive Change. There was once a time when females weren’t allowed to receive an education and Priyali believes it is important to use these opportunities to your advantage.
She says, “It is very important as a female to receive an education or to be involved. We are smart; we can do anything that is in our minds. Females and males are equal, so I think that we should take the opportunities that we encounter and show the world what we are made of.”
Although these girls have a life plan mapped out, not everyone knows what their future holds for them. Priyali wants to tell young women who are uncertain about what they want for themselves to “go with what your heart tells you; do not think of others or what they might think of you. Eventually, your heart will lead you to a place. That is what happened to me.” And even if you don’t know where your journey will take you, never be afraid to take risks.
The women before us paved the way for our success, so go through the open doors now! Rahath leaves us with an inspirational quote that will hopefully make you think.
She expresses her favorite quote from Hannah Montana, “Life’s what you make it, so let’s make it right.” Rahath says, “I’m a strong believer that no matter what situation you’re given, you can take what you want from it. If you want to put your heart and soul into it and make it a good experience, then you can. However, if you don’t try and just accept that you can’t change what happens to you, then you’ll be a miserable person.”
And if these two women we’re enough motivation for you, there are many influential women in the public eye today who are making an impact on this world. Before J.K. Rowling published Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone in 1997, she was just a single mother with an idea.
Now, with the success of her seven Potter books, blockbuster movie success, and theme park The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Rowling has taken the world by storm. Forbes named Rowling as the first person to become a U.S.-dollar billionaire by just by writing books! In addition to her contribution to a cultural phenomenon, Rowling also has created organizations that raise funds for multiple sclerosis research and anti-poverty.
Another superwoman you might have heard of, Angelina Jolie, is not only an Academy award winning actress, but she is an activist, humanitarian, and also just happens to be a mom of six children! When Angelina first appeared in her first film as a child in 1982, no one could predict the success she would have.
She’s acted in many films such as Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, Mr. & Mrs. Smith, Wanted, and Salt. Angelina also participates in countless organizations and has received many honorary titles. Just to name a few, in 2001 Jolie was recognized as a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador. After the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, she donated $1 million dollars to help with relief. She has also been on a numerous mission trips to over 20 countries to aid refugees.
Let’s face it, women have the power to achieve any of their goals and dreams, so what’s holding you back? Look at the world with a different perspective and strive to make a name for yourself. Whether it’s a one-day project, or a 10-year plan, start now. Whose life will you change?