For almost one hundred years, the Latin words, "Vires, Artes, Mores" have been the guiding philosophy behind Florida State University. Vires signifies strength of all kinds - moral, physical, and intellectual; Artes alludes to the beauty of intellectual pursuits as exemplified in skill, craft, or art; and Mores refers to character, custom, or tradition. Describe how one or more of the values embodied in these concepts are reflected in your life.
In the beginning I would just stare at the majestic whiteness of the ice that seemed to call me to try it, but that I felt so afraid of. It would take me a few trips to the rink with my elementary school class to actually try it and when I eventually did what I had feared for actually occurred, I fell down. Lying on that ice while everyone seemed like a pro made me realize that no skill or talent can ever be developed or discovered by just staring at it. After getting up and standing there for a few minutes, I became eager to move and when I did and felt the cold breeze on my checks I totally forgot how much the fall had hurt and continued practicing until I could master it.
"Mores" to me is the most important of the three values, having a strong character is what will guide me to also posses the strength to pursue anything. I have exemplified and grown in this concept ever since I was nine and had to leave my native country to start fresh on a new one. I had to find the moral strength in me and the one given from my parents to overcome such a crucial change in my life without it overwhelming me. I was very blessed because all those times I could not do something that was new for me I always pushed myself in a positive way to learn it and develop it.
This was the way I developed both my Mores and Vires in the form of character and strength who like learning to ice skate, helped me build up on my knowledge inside and outside the classroom. It became a way in which I developed a necessity to explore the unknown creating in me a love for variety and people which has driven me to pursue my vocation. I have learned to push myself to perform against odds throughout dedication and hard work. Ranging from having to learn a new language to learning math and do it successfully. It is how now I translate simultaneously to Jacksonville's 92.5 FM every Sunday at 11:45 when I was just starting to master the language a few years back.
Having lived in three countries and possessing a strongly driven life based on my Christian faith as well as on my persistence in pursuing a career in international affairs, I find the University's motto already impregnated in my life.
