Even though I understand that every Ball State University student is not interested in the NCAA basketball tournament, it's hard not to relate this competitive event to real life situations. When you graduate, I guarantee that the term "underdog" will be utilized in your field of expertise. Whether it's the person fighting for your position in the office, the company trying to steal your clients or the boss who looks down on you, there is normally someone and something expected to lose.
So far, however, the 2008 NCAA men's basketball tournament has seen several cases in which the underdog wins. Commonly known as an upset, fans of college basketball have witnessed Siena crush Vanderbilt, San Diego beat Connecticut, Western Kentucky win on a last-second three over highly favored Drake, and West Virginia defeat Duke. Although each tournament differs each year, one thing remains the same: there is always an upset that no fan, analyst or reporter saw coming.
Yet, what does all of this have to do with school and the work force? It's simple. With a little effort and the right attitude, anything is possible. Despite his angry personality, it was Bob Knight who said on ESPN last week that when two teams are equally compared, it's the team that shows more energy and passion who will become victorious. The same goes for our future.
We will all have to fight other students from highly respected schools for competitive jobs, but if you exemplify just how much you want a particular job, it may very well land you the position. Because college students usually have similar résumés, which include zealous GPAs, extracurricular activities and precious awards, we have to somehow distinguish ourselves from the rest. How are we supposed to do that though?
Well, how did 13th seed Siena defeat 4th seed Vanderbilt by 21 points? Siena came in oozing with confidence. The Saints wanted it more. On paper, Vanderbilt is the better basketball team, but last Friday, Siena took that honor. Remember, it's not the size of the dog in the fight, but more importantly the size of the fight in the dog. A first-round shocker, Siena beat Vanderbilt with vigor.
So, acknowledge that life is not always based on talent and statistics. Otherwise, the NCAA would always have four number one seeds in the Final Four, which has never happened. In my own case, I do not consider myself the smartest student, but I certainly do carry a strong work ethic. I only received average SAT scores, but I know I excel in several things other than standardized tests. It is not my intelligence that gets me the A, rather my ability to study and push forward.
With five weeks left of school, I urge all students to take a closer look at what the NCAA basketball tournament stands for. Men's or women's, you will see an upset or two. It may not happen as often as you would like, but the few that do will share things in common. The underdog will have an overwhelming amount of confidence, passion and energy.
When it comes to a test, job interview or report that needs to be completed, remember the Siena, Western Kentucky or San Diego team who defied odds. I really believe we can also have the same effect: in school, the work place or at home. Pull the upset by getting a B in biology versus a C. During the interview process, beat the Harvard graduate by showing exceptional confidence and enthusiasm. Prove to the spouse that you can fix the kitchen or watch the kids.
If you want something in life, show it. Do whatever it takes, because I know ahead of time that you will not get your dream job/life/house because Ball State redefined education.
It will be because you worked hard and went the extra mile.
Jason Marer a sophomore secondary social studies education major and writes 'Think to Exist' for the Daily News. His views do not necessarily agree with those of the newspaper.
Write to Jason at jsmarer@bsu.edu
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