My SLU Experience of a Lifetime

I stood at the top of the steps looking out at the marble tomb. The wind slapped my cheeks as if to remind me that this was real life. I was about to lay the weath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Weeks before, I had written a paper about Abraham Lincoln and how he began as a nobody, but turned into one of our nation's greatest leaders. I submitted the paper to SLU, hoping I would be chosen for the honor to lay the wreath but slightly doubting my abilities. 

Then I waited.

Two days into SLU 201 in Washington D.C., I assumed they chose other winners to lay the wreath, but as we received announcements for the rest of the night, I was asked to come to the front of the large conference room. While up there, I was told that I was chosen to lay the wreath at the Arlington Cemetery. 

My heart skipped a beat. Was this real?! I looked around at the student leaders next to me who had also been chosen, our excitement obvious.

The next day was incredible. I took it all in. 

I was honored to have a VIP tour of the Arlington Cemetery, leading us to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. 

When we got to the top of the stairs, my heart began to pound hard. One of the guards gave each of us students laying the wreath a strong handshake and specific orders in what to do. In my mind, I was so nervous I would forget what to do! 

Finally the time came. We marched down the stairs in an orderly manner, placed our hands on the wreath, and saluted as they played "Taps." 

As the song played, my mind raced. I was standing where Presidents have stood. I was a part of one of the most honorable ceremonies.

Wow.

Laying the wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was such a privilege and a memory I will cherish always.

+++++

The only place I know that can provide experiences like these is SLU. 

Student Leadership University invites students to think, dream, and lead while providing boundless opportunities to grow in your leadership skills. I mean, where else can you go that gives you the chance to lay the wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?

I invite you to begin your journey at SLU where wisdom and life-changing experiences await. 

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