2011 Scholarship Entry #98: Sander Lekas

'There are many things that we would throw away if we were not afraid that others might pick them up.' - Oscar Wilde

My name is Sander Lekas, and this September I will enter my second year in a Bachelor of Science degree majoring in biology. After a year of post-secondary education, my eyes have been opened to a world of problems that are in need of attention. With global warming, a fluctuating economy, and fuel prices constantly on the rise, members of my generation are faced with seemingly endless obstacles. It is apparent that issues such as these pose a great threat to the well-being of today's society. However, I believe that when people contemplate these issues, they are only concerned with how they will be affected themselves. Whether we realize it or not, my generation has grown to have an entirely selfish disposition. Therefore I believe that without a doubt, one of the greatest issues facing my generation is egocentrism.

With disposable income levels being extremely high among teens and young adults, materialism is at an all time high. I believe that this is a huge contributor to the self-interestedness of my generation, as we seem to be in a never ending pursuit of objects and material wealth. Although I certainly do not claim to be completely selfless, I do take pride in helping others, and there is little I enjoy more than making others smile. I currently work at a camp for adults with developmental disabilities, and it is the perfect environment to positively influence the lives of others. I try to combat selfishness by giving my all every day, in order to create an environment where the individuals with whom I am working can have the best experience possible. At camp, I assist individuals in petting the animals, playing games, singing songs, going on boat and wagon rides, and even going for tube rides behind the Seadoo. It is a place where they are able to do many things that would not be possible for them anywhere else. I see the clients that we work with as an inspiration, because they are completely judgement free, show unconditional love for others, and genuinely care for the people around them. In addition to being a camp counsellor I have also done volunteer work that includes organizing bingo at the local senior's center, instructing youth basketball camps, and coaching junior high basketball teams. My goal through coaching has always been to teach my players how to play the game so they may have fun, while also playing fair and acquiring teamwork skills.

I believe that by working together and making an effort to work towards goals that benefit all of society rather than only oneself, a new level of community and progress can be achieved by my generation. Although it may be easier to be concerned only about one's own personal problems, it is necessary to remember that everyone is the main character of their own story.