Purpose and perseverance: Lean into your 'why'
The first day of the 2024 Nordic Cup cross-country ski races against UAA on the Usibelli Ski Trails on the UAF campus, Friday, Dec. 6, 2024, featured a 10-kilometer freestyle-technique interval-start event.
Oct. 20, 2026
— Owen Guthrie, vice chancellor for student affairs and enrollment management
Huge congratulations to you on making it past the midpoint of our journey together! You’re doing an amazing job, and it’s exciting to see how far you’ve come.
As we navigate the next few days here in the Interior (winter weather advisory with 3-7 inches of snow expected), remember that pushing through this weather can be a lot like navigating your academic path; be prepared and take it one step at a time. Every step counts! Remember, it’s all about consistent effort; there are no quick fixes. Stick to your routine, be careful not to fall into a rut, and don’t get distracted. I know this journey can be tough, but trust me, you are doing fantastic, and I’m really proud of you!
As we head into the next few weeks, the road we’re on can start to feel a bit long. The thrilling start is behind us, and it can feel like the end is way off. This is normal. But don’t worry! We’re just a few weeks away from fall break, and then it’s a short hop to finals and the end of the fall 2026 semester. You’ve got this!
In longer races, it’s easy to get tunnel vision and lose sight of why we started. The moment starts to loom large, and it can be hard to see the bigger picture and remember why we started this in the first place. It’s totally normal to feel a bit worn out. Our feet and minds might be getting fatigued. The excitement of new classes, living arrangements, and friendships might start to fade as well. The daily reality can start to weigh more heavily than the lofty ideas that got you started on this path.
So, let’s take a moment to think about your "why." Why are you here? Are you doing this for your parents, for yourself, for a partner, for a brighter future, or maybe just for the joy of learning? Investing in your education is one of the best things you can do for yourself. Your dream may feel far away with all the homework and projects, but completing each little task moves you closer to your goal. Lean into your purpose. That dream of yours can fuel your motivation. If you can hold that in your mind, nothing can stand in your way! Tired feet and a long to-do list are just small hills in the road. Remember, every paper, quiz, and chapter you read contributes to something bigger, a better future for you and your loved ones. You’ve truly got this!
Take a moment to find that purpose. Lean into your why. Feel that surge of energy. It’s the power of your own determination! Just thinking about it might put a smile on your face. Reconnect with your purpose. You are unstoppable!
If you don’t feel it or if this notion fills you with anxiety, that can be normal too. Talk to someone. Talk with your advisor, a parent or a friend. Talk with someone you trust who cares about you and share your feelings. That will help, and I guarantee you will feel better after sharing where you are at and taking a moment to regroup and refocus on the destination.
As the colder, darker, and snowier days arrive in the Interior, it can be tempting to pull back on the fun activities. But it’s so important to keep the spirit of adventure alive! Seek new challenges; maybe find a cozy new study spot or team up with new friends on projects. Wherever you are, think about how you’ll stay active. Make a plan to get outside, do something social and definitely take those well-deserved breaks from your studies. Embrace the joy of winter! How about planning some sledding, taking a stroll to catch the aurora or checking out events through ? Dive in and try something new!
Things to do this week:
Check out upcoming Outdoor Adventure trips! The Campus Trails Snowshoe and Aurora Viewing outing is coming up on Oct. 21, and registration is officially open for ski programs starting in November. It’s a fantastic way to embrace the snow and enjoy our winter wonderland!
Have you taken a group class at the Rec Center yet? Remember, it’s completely included with your Nanook Rec pass! You can check out Mat Pilates, Indoor Cycling, Boot Camp, Intermediate Strength Training (starting Oct. 20), or Intro to Olympic Weightlifting (starting Oct. 26). All the details and schedules can be found at Nanook Rec.
on Oct. 22 at 6:30 p.m. for a casual, fun night of laughter featuring local comics and great personalities. Interested in stepping onto the stage yourself? Stick around until the end to learn more about the local comedy scene, stand-up dos and don'ts, and get your questions answered by professionals in the field!
Have you seen the northern lights yet? Did you know there’s an created and hosted right here by our very own ? This coming weekend looks very promising for aurora viewing, so keep an eye on the forecast and take a moment to look up!
Have a great ninth week of classes here at UAF!
As ever, if you’d care to share your ideas on what we could do better, please share!
You can find me at obguthrie@alaska.edu.