http://www.uncp.edu/news/2008/andrea_mosby_jones.htm

Confront fear. Be Courageous. Forgive others. Take Responsibility.

These are four tips that convocation guest speaker Andrea Mosby-Jones gave to UNCP students seated in the Givens Performing Arts Center on Wednesday Aug. 27, 2008.

Although some students dozed off after the welcome notes by Chancellor Allen C. Meadors, Dr. Breeden Blackwell, chair of the Board of Trustees, Dr. Anthony Curtis, chair of the Faculty Senate and Hannah Simpson, president of the Student Government Association, Mosby-Jones interrupted their slumber with these words, “A person is old when regrets take the place of dreams.”

When she was 16, Mosby-Jones found out she was pregnant. Determined not to become a statistic, this life-changing event helped her realize the importance of making good decisions.

For 17 years, she has spoken to students, businesses and communities about decision-making and how to be successful.

According to Mosby-Jones, people cannot let their fears control their actions. She told students they need to confront their fears.

“Fear is real, but fear is not your reality… and don’t think fear isn’t always standing in the door,” she said. “Most people speak through their fears, not their dreams.”

Courage, according to Mosby-Jones, is vital to success. Things will be difficult, but the “hardest thing is having regrets for not trying,” she said.

“Let the past stay in the past;” and learn to forgive, Mosby-Jones said. Letting someone or a memory of an event put accomplishments on hold is foolish. “You have too much to live for.”

The speaker insisted that students start taking responsibility. To accomplish their dreams, students need a good education. Mosby-Jones said that professors can only help as much as students let them, and encouraged to ask questions in and out of class.

“Faculty cannot help you be successful without your permission,” she said. “Excellence needs to be the goal. We live in a nation where mediocrity is accepted. America can’t afford to be mediocre anymore.”

She explained that companies are employing people overseas because today’s American youth is not taking advantage of the opportunities provided.

“Make sure you have a plan ‘A’ and a plan ‘B,’” she said. “It’s in the journey that you build character,” and through character you gain the abilities needed to succeed. “Life is a purpose. Fulfill it.”

Mosby-Jones received a standing ovation as she concluded her address. During some parts of her motivational talk, students responded with “amen,” “yes,” and “that’s right.” The speaker woke a dozing audience, kept its attention, and offered advice.