The Core Values of Service at Texas A&M University 

 

Public service is the backbone of a functioning society, playing a pivotal role in ensuring that essential services are available to all community members. At Texas A&M University, selfless service is one of the core values we hold dear, particularly within the Corps of Cadets. Through my volunteering experiences, I have learned that service goes beyond physical labor; it involves offering companionship, emotional support, and a sense of connection to those in need.

 

Service Through the Corps of Cadets

 

As part of the Corps of Cadets, leadership training emphasizes the importance of serving the community. One key opportunity for service is Big Event, a student-run project designed to give back to the local community in appreciation for the support we receive. Although we were unable to participate in 2021 due to COVID-19, we had the opportunity to participate in the Big Event in 2022, 2023, and 2024. During each of these years, we assisted families and elderly residents with yard maintenance tasks such as weeding, raking leaves, staining fences, and removing fire ants. While performing these physical tasks, we also had the opportunity to connect with the property owners. Many of them shared stories from their time at Texas A&M, offering valuable advice for success. It was evident that the isolation brought on by the pandemic had deeply impacted them. In these moments, our work wasn’t just about providing physical assistance; it was about offering emotional support and companionship. These conversations helped break the silence caused by prolonged isolation and served as a reminder of the importance of community. Through this experience, I realized that the true impact of service lies not only in helping others with tangible tasks but also in forging meaningful human connections.

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Continuing the Service Journey Beyond University

 

After my time in the Corps of Cadets, I continued to seek ways to serve my community. I became involved with the A&M United Methodist Church, which offers many service opportunities both within the congregation and in the College Station community. One of the most notable events that the church organizes each fall is its Fall Festival, a Halloween celebration for the College Station community. Initially, I volunteered to work at the cakewalk because I wanted to engage with attendees, but I was later reassigned to the kitchen assistant role, where I was tasked with helping prepare and distribute food and drinks. Although this new role was more focused on food preparation and distribution, it still provided an opportunity to interact with a variety of individuals, especially elderly members of the congregation. While restocking chips, filling cups with water and lemonade, and cleaning the kitchen, I had the chance to listen to stories shared by these individuals. They offered their wisdom and life experiences, offering advice both for my post-college life and beyond. Despite the busyness of the evening, their stories and wisdom made the experience far more meaningful than I had imagined. The joy of connecting with others reminded me that service is not just about the physical tasks we complete, but about the relationships we form and the care we provide to those we serve.

 

The Power of Service

 

Reflecting on my experiences with volunteering through Texas A&M and beyond, I have learned that service is not just about performing tasks for others. It’s about building meaningful connections, providing emotional support, and showing genuine care for others. Whether helping with yard work for an elderly couple or serving food at a community event, the true value of service lies in the relationships we form and the positive impact we have on each other’s lives. These experiences have shaped my understanding of leadership, empathy, and community. As I continue to serve, I am reminded that service is not just about what we give, but about the lasting bonds we build in the process.