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Latwell Nyangu-Youth Interactive Writer
In the fast-paced and competitive environment of college life, students often face numerous choices and challenges that can impact their future.
In most cases, wealth is not always guaranteed, riches are not always assured, but a good name is yours forever. Even when you die, it keeps speaking for you.
One crucial lesson that stands out amid pursuing academic success and personal growth is the age-old wisdom that a good name is better than riches.
This timeless adage holds significant relevance for college students, guiding them towards making decisions that prioritise integrity, character, and reputation over material wealth.
We should not debate that university life presents a myriad of opportunities and challenges for students to excel academically, socially as well as professionally.
But, however, the temptation to take shortcuts or engage in dishonest practices may arise, especially when faced with academic pressure or the desire for immediate success.
Fellow students, choosing to uphold integrity over shortcuts not only builds a foundation of trust and respect, but also cultivates a reputation that will endure beyond graduation.
This week, I observed something as I was engaging and networking. I got to a certain place where I interacted with some students who were laughing at each other over their universities.
Each student would defend their university since there are many connotations associated with behaviours of some learners from different universities in the country. Some are associated with promiscuity, drugs, stealing, stubbornness, partying, etc.
And by virtue of that, one day you all be looking for opportunities, such as employment, and one they will ask you which university did you go to? The bottom line is, that some of the students have tainted the names of the institutions and as a result, it has also affected their names.
Zvinenge zvakunzi, haa vana vekuuniversity B or A havaite.
Most of the graduates have lost job opportunities due to the university went to.
People would despise, mock, and laugh at you, but they, however, know your value.
They might say a lot of things behind and in front of you, but they can never take away what you have.
Throwing in the towel to their mockery shatters all the efforts you have put in to be where you are.
Don’t let them win.
It feels good to be exceptionally different in good light.
Most students have lost good names due to their characters.
It pays to be known for the good morals and values you uphold, and keep being a good example to those around you no matter the persecution you face.
I always enjoy borrowing some wisdom from the Bible and in this piece, I extracted some from the book of Proverbs 22:1, A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches And loving favour rather than silver and gold.
Bear with me, I am not a preacher.
So many people might never have time to open the Bible, moreover read it to be guided by what is right, but your lifestyle can serve as one.
At times it might seem they are not paying attention, but with time, they will have no other choice, but to follow your footsteps of integrity.
This virtue is highly contagious, I tell you.
Being a student of integrity is for your own good because you won’t have to feel guilty or be at war with your conscience.
Stand your ground no matter what, and be a student of integrity, it pays. What follows a good name is synonymous with trustworthiness, honesty, and reliability. In the college setting, earning the trust and respect of peers, professors, and potential employers is invaluable.
By consistently demonstrating ethical behaviour, fulfilling commitments, and treating others with respect, students lay the groundwork for a positive reputation that can open doors to future opportunities.
While academic achievements and career aspirations are essential aspects of college life, the significance of maintaining a good name should not be underestimated.
The choices made during these formative years can have lasting repercussions on one’s personal and professional life.
Investing in building a reputation based on integrity and ethical conduct sets the stage for long-term success and fulfilment.
The wisdom literature in the Bible consistently highlights the importance of integrity, honour, and respect over material possessions.
Choosing to prioritise a good name means valuing qualities like honesty, moral courage, personal integrity, and honourable behaviour above the pursuit of wealth.
Solomon’s advice in Proverbs underscores the idea that while both riches and a good reputation are desirable if one must choose between them, it is wiser to opt for a good name.
This choice reflects an understanding that character and how one is perceived by others hold greater significance in the long run than mere material wealth.
A student or graduate with a good name earns trust, respect, and favour from those around them, which can lead to lasting relationships and opportunities, and you set an example for others.
While wealth may bring temporary comfort or security, a good name reflects qualities that endure beyond material possessions. Ultimately, students need to prioritise building and maintaining a positive reputation based on moral values and virtuous conduct.
In doing so, one not only benefits personally but also contributes positively to their relationships with others and society as a whole. As far I know, college students are faced with numerous decisions that shape their journey towards adulthood and professional life.
But embracing the principle that a good name is better than riches serves as a guiding light in navigating these choices.
Fellow students, prioritising integrity and a good name can cultivate a reputation that will serve you well beyond your college years.
We are in this together fellow students. Until we meet for a toast!
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