Warrane College, University of New South Wales
6 October 2010
Your time at university puts you into a very open and enquiring culture. Participate in university life to the full and see your university course as merely the commencement for a life of continual learning. Be curious, alive and alert to the possibilities.
Never forget what education is about, that is, to lead something out of yourself. Think deeply and understand the engagement you have with good teachers who have much to impart. Do not overlook your own contribution to the university and to broader society, particularly to those less fortunate. At university, join a club or society, play sport – experience all the richness that university has to offer.
At the same time, be self-aware, engage in critical thinking and go deep into your own beliefs and preconceptions. Now is the time to explore this with a spirit of openness and action.
Take the long view of your career and ask yourself the deep question “How should I live my life” as formulated by the ancient Greeks, ie, What can I know?, What can I hope?, “How should I live”? (Plato and Aristotle). What are my talents and skills and what do I want to achieve in the near term, mid term, longer term?
Do not lose sight of the turning points and discontinuities in your career. Life is never linear. Understand the tonic versus the toxic personality. Think of others, bring enthusiasm, a sense of urgency, action and purpose. Avoid negativity, anger, moodiness, vanity and narcissism. Be engaged with the world.
Live with an approach of curiosity, giving of yourself. Understand the importance of presentation and style, but at all times done in a spirit of honesty, integrity and humour. Never lose sight of the big picture and the higher purpose of life.