My name is Avneet and I’m a loser. Seriously, it’s a term that I actively embrace. I even wrote an article for The Varsity about the merits of being a loser.
When I first got to university, the most jarring thing was the amount of elections that would take place. It felt like no matter what club or society I wanted to join, I would have to run in an election for it. I wasn’t necessarily comfortable with the idea of running in elections, since the idea of losing was (and if I’m being honest, still is) anxiety-inducing.
I remember my attempt at running for the illustrious position of First-Year Representative of the Trinity College Dramatic Society. I did theatre throughout high school, so I thought, “why not?” I was given a sheet with the lyrics to “In Da Club” by 50 Cent and was instructed to turn it into a monologue. I took a military approach to this monologue, screaming “go shawty, it’s your birthday!” as if I were yelling at a group of soldiers.
Needless to say, I was a close second place. Good effort! Better luck next time!
The truth is that elections are tough work. You’re making yourself vulnerable and taking a risk. However, whether you win or lose, running in elections is a pay-off. First of all, you’re putting yourself out there! That’a amazing! Additionally, you’re establishing your interest in a certain club, group, or activity. Last, if you happen to win, you get to do something you enjoy doing and have worked hard to get where you are.
Last year, I lost elections for:
- Prime Minister of the Trinity College Literary Institute
- Opposition Leader of the Trinity College Literary Institute
- House Leader (Government) of the Trinity College Literary Institute
- Editor-in-Chief of The Salterrae
- Features Editor of The Varsity
- Member-at-Large of the Trinity College Board of Stewards
At the end, I did win elections for:
- House Leader (Opposition) of the Trinity College Literary Institute
- Avant-Garg Editor of the UC Gargoyle
- Communications Coordinator of the Trinity College Non-Resident Affairs Committee (okay, I’ll admit it… no one else ran… but still)
It takes a lot of courage and confidence to put yourself out there and try out things you like. If you’ve been doing it, good for you! If you haven’t yet, there’s always a place to start. Whether it’s a public election or an application, it’s always good to put yourself out there. Just remember that no matter the outcome, you are still a brave, wonderful person.
Sometimes, losing elections just mean a better opportunity will come to us later. I know that sounds like a cliché, but I’m speaking from experience.
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