In Celebration of International Women’s Day
Advice BU women leaders would give to their former selves
Today, Friday, March 8, is International Women’s Day, also known as the United National Day for Women’s Rights and International Peace. The annual event is marked by special events and programs across the globe celebrating women’s social, economic, political, and cultural achievements throughout history. It also aims to draw attention to the discrimination and gender inequality that women continue to face. The theme of this year’s Women’s Day, #BalanceforBetter, is intended to make everyone, no matter their gender or status, more aware of bias and the harm it does and to serve as a call to action for accelerating gender parity.
In honor of International Women’s Day, we reached out to women leaders in the BU community—students, faculty, staff, and alums—and asked them this question: “What advice would you give to your former self?” Their answers are inspiring.
Vice president of internal affairs, BU Student Government
“Everything will work out exactly as it should. Have faith, advocate for yourself, and be bold!”
Photo courtesy of Burleson
Senior vice president, Weber Shandwick
“Do not strive for perfection; perfection is subjective. Focus instead on delivering true value to every relationship—professionally and personally—and never stop being what makes you uniquely you.”
Photo courtesy of Kelley
Chief of police, BU Police Department
“Don’t fret over things that are out of your control. Be adaptable and keep moving forward.”
Photo courtesy of Nee
Graduate assistant for administration, Dean of Students office
“Dive deep into all of your passions, as those will make you the well-rounded person you have the potential to be.”
Photo courtesy of Jaroslavsky
Director of track and field and cross country
“I’d tell myself to work hard and always try and do my absolute best, but I’d also say, make sure to enjoy the ride. Don’t stress out too much. Stop worrying about the small things. Everything is going to work out, so make sure to enjoy each and every day. They are gifts.”
Photo by Cydney Scott
Arvind and Chandan Nandlal Kilachand Professor and director of Kilachand Honors College and a College of Arts & Sciences professor of English and of women’s, gender, and sexuality studies
“Speak up when you see something wrong, but just as importantly, amplify the voices of others who need to be heard.”
Photo courtesy of Preston
Provost and chief academic officer
“I would tell my younger self, who would not have been able to hear, to always make time for family and friends. They are the threads that hold together all the pieces of a meaningful life.”
Photo by Cydney Scott
College of Communication associate professor of the practice, public relations
“Learn how to negotiate with confidence. You have more power than you realize and should look at compromise as a win-win, not a settlement.”
Photo courtesy of Shanler
Director of labor relations, Human Resources, and cochair of the BU LGBTQIA Task Force
“My advice to both my former and current self would be this, one of my favorite quotes from Audre Lorde, lesbian poet, feminist, civil rights activist: ‘When I dare to be powerful, to use my strength in the service of my vision, then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid.’”
Photo courtesy of Burgess
Women’s basketball head coach
“I would tell my younger self there is no such thing as perfect, and stop trying to plan your life. You will ultimately end up exactly where you are supposed to be…just enjoy the ride!”
Photo by Cydney Scott
Professor of Biomedical Engineering and Materials Science and Engineering
Inaugural Director, ARROWS, Office of the Provost
“Don’t compare yourself to others, don’t be afraid to try something new, don’t be afraid to ask for help, and don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something. No one is perfect: anyone who has been successful has a strong support system—they are lying if they say otherwise.”
Photo by Josh Andrus
Associate provost for diversity and inclusion
“Give energy, time, and attention to the people and activities that animate you, which call you to be your most compassionate, smartest, most effective, and giving self.”
Photo courtesy of Williams
Vice president and associate provost for research
“Don’t be afraid to embrace opportunities as they come along. Even if you think it’s a stretch, you’d be surprised at what you achieve and how much satisfaction there is in getting there.”
Photo by Robert Bachrach
Stage and events manager for many College of Fine Arts productions
“You know more than you think. Give yourself the freedom to believe in yourself.”
Photo courtesy of Collet
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