#637 overcoming hurdles

What can you do with a degree in economics and a minor in Spanish?  Apparently compete in the Olympics! 

That is what Lolo Jones has done with her degree, and not just once, but twice. Jones is one of the few athletes who competed in both Winter and Summer Olympics -- hurdles in London and now the bobsled in Sochi.

In Sochi, there were only 2850 athletes participating.  In London, there were approximately 10,500.  Think about what it takes to be among the best in the world at one sport, let alone two distinctly different ones.

We put so much pressure on young people to select a major in college, yet except for a few specialized professions, the specific degree doesn't matter so much. The collegiate educational experience has value because it teaches students persistence, tenacity, critical thinking, time management, prioritization, group dynamics and a host of other skills beyond the facts.  Often, it also helps people find their passion -- or passions -- and gives them the drive to pursue them.  

Kudos to Lolo for getting the degree and the Olympic rings.  Think about her when you don't believe you have the time to go to the gym!

-- beth triplett
leadershipdots.blogspot.com

@leadershipdots
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