Emma Blanck
2023/24
Hawaii
Everyone has a passion in life—something that drives them forward and gives their life meaning. For many, this passion becomes a way to have a positive impact on the world. What does it mean to have a positive impact on the world? It’s leaving the world a better place than you have found it, no matter how big or small the gesture. Our actions ripple out to the lives of others. It’s easy to see how helping clear the ocean of plastic can benefit the marine life that lives there. Yet the passion for the saxophone may be harder to see. However, it brings joy to those who hear it and may expose just one other person to find their own love for music. If you haven’t yet discovered your passion or purpose, remember that you’re not behind. There’s no deadline for figuring out your place in the world. In fact, the journey of exploration is often the most enriching part for you and those you encounter! By trying different things, you gain new perspectives and experiences, each of which contributes to your understanding of what truly matters to you. In fact, I hope you don’t find your passion right away, because, in the process of searching, you’ll have the chance to experience so many other passions that others bring to the world.
Many people wait until they’ve found their passion or established their place in life before they start consciously trying to make the world a better place. But the truth is, the positive impact starts with small, everyday actions that we often overlook. These small differences — holding a door for someone, picking up trash, playing your music — add up over time, creating a domino effect that can lead to significant change. While larger contributions to the world, like advancements in cancer research or changing laws to empower women globally, often require advanced education or specialized skills, you do not need to wait for a degree or a clear passion to start making a difference. Every step you take on your journey toward finding your passion is an opportunity to make those smaller, yet meaningful, differences along the way. I urge you to see your journey not just as a search for purpose, but as a change to impact the world right now, in small but powerful ways. You do not need to wait for the perfect moment or the perfect role to make your mark — you can start today, with the little things that together, create a big difference.