Redefining “School Spirit”

As fall sports approach, school spirit will soon be in full swing. And with the success of the University of Northern Iowa's men's basketball team last season, we clearly have a lot be celebrating. But is school spirit only an athletic thing? Are we only seen as "supportive" of the university if we attend all athletic events, paint ourselves purple and camp out in front of the dome five hours before kick off? Well, it depends on who you ask.

While standing behind our student athletes is certainly one way to show school spirit, it seems that sometimes we, as students and faculty, can overlook how being academically engaged in school is often the only way a particular student knows how to show school spirit. As we are a state university, our student body is full of people who excel in a variety of activities. From athletics to music to student organizations such as Northern Iowa Student Government and Public Relations Student Society of America, all students here have something to offer the UNI community. We have students who win national awards, start their own businesses and volunteer a great deal of their time to better the community. And while of course these students get recognition throughout campus, it is hard for some to see how they are showing school spirit. Many of us can be blamed for that; sometimes we just don't see the bigger picture.

As students we all have a great deal of pride for UNI, otherwise we wouldn't be here constantly moving forward, getting our rather small state university on the map. And while athletics brings a great deal of pride and national attention to our school, many other organizations do as well. In fact, the PRSSA currently has two students from the UNI chapter serving in national leadership positions. If that isn't a representation of school spirit, well, what is?

As many freshman take their first dive into college, it is crucial to show them how being involved, no matter how, is important to UNI. Because students often come from high schools that are much smaller in size, it can be difficult for them to feel a part of such a large student body. However, if we all show more support for the organizations throughout campus, it will show the underclassmen how they can give back and become part of the UNI community. Whether a student wants to perform at the Strayer-Wood Theatre or become a member of the Accounting Club, there is always an opportunity to get involved.

Certainly, as a student body we all do our best to support each other. We have respect for one another and common interests between us. But it seems that our definition of school spirit is a little muddy and in need of a renovation.  While in no way should the success of our hardworking athletes be overlooked, it can sometimes feel disappointing that other successful students aren't as highly praised. We are all here to excel; we all want to succeed. Perhaps the best way for us to keep pushing each other is to praise one another, no matter the organization, just a little more. Our peers are often our best motivators, aren't they?