Turning Points By Former UT Presidents William Cunningham And William Powers Jr.

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Movement of Change: An analysis of Turning Points by former UT Presidents William Cunningham and William Powers Jr.
As a first-year freshman, I often get asked what my major is and what I plan to do with it. I often reply, “Neuroscience, and a Physician Assistant” but what they do not know is that in the back of my mind I know that my plans will eventually change and I will end up performing what truly feeds my passion. This whole concept of what I am supposed to be doing and the uncertainty in my future is what drove me to this lecture. In this lecture series, I discovered what changed The University of Texas at Austin’s history through Cunningham’s top 10 key points and William Powers’ notable decisions that got him to the high chair.
William …show more content…

UT Austin’s most recent president who dealt with some heavy political debacles during his time as president and led some incredible transformations of this university conveyed his own guidance. Growing up he learned, after being invited to sit with the popular kids and hearing them ridicule his other friends, that it is important to place oneself in these situations where you stretch yourself and grow. These situations allow to form one’s own morals, ethics and character. After high school, he joined the Navy and found the importance of exploring the world. Once done with his service, he attended Law School and instead of following the typical routine of joining a law firm, he realized his true passion was teaching. Powers then offered his next piece of advice, pursue your passion even if it does not guarantee a heavy paycheck. Those who solely pursue the paycheck pursue unhappiness. William Powers proceeded to deliver the key point in his lecture, “you millennials plan too much, you have no idea what the future brings, so let the future unfold in front of you”. Most students are set on what they want to do, whether imposed by their families or motivated by the lifestyle they will live, one should not limit their options. William Powers with his passion and determination demonstrated to all students that life is uncertain and we should not be so fixated on a plan. Powers, an inspiring man to say the least, briefly touched upon the fights and battles he underwent through with the Texas legislation which demonstrated his vigor for not only the quality in education but all students and