The Power of a Moment

I’m a strong believer in the power of a moment. I believe that a moment, or a series of moments, has the power to impact and shape decisions and trajectories. I experienced this moment as a senior in high school, when I set foot in Gaylord College for the first time. As a Norman girl, born-and-raised, I was convinced I couldn’t have the adventurous college experience I dreamed of in my own hometown. However, on that particular day in the spring of my senior year, I was greeted by a welcoming and engaging Gaylord Ambassador. She invited me to take part in what was happening at Gaylord and showed me that this college wasn’t just a building but a home. She created a special experience for me that was a defining moment in my decision process. That moment influenced my decision to not only attend OU but to pursue a degree from Gaylord. The opportunities and experiences that awaited me are what have shaped me into the young professional I am today.  

It was also this moment on my tour that inspired me to serve as a Gaylord College Ambassador for three years and use my moment as fuel to serve the college and create similar moments for the students that would come behind me. As a Gaylord Ambassador, one of my primary roles was giving tours to prospective students. Every time I began a tour, I was energized by the opportunity to connect with this student. It reminded me of the anticipation and excitement I was filled with when I toured Gaylord for the first time. That memory inspired me to offer visiting families an incredible day so that each student on the tour could, like me, experience a powerful “moment” and fall in love with Gaylord College too. 

What I realized on my own tour, and what I hoped to encourage each prospective student I came in contact with, was that Gaylord was filled with people who were dedicated to helping me create and tell my story. I am just one of the hundreds who have, and will, pass through the doors of the building on the corner of Lindsey and Asp, leaving with the confidence and ability to share my story. 

There is no other place on campus like Gaylord College. When I reflect on what makes Gaylord different, what comes to mind is the faces of classmates who have become dear friends, and the faculty and staff members who have been my mentors and biggest cheerleaders. And that is what makes Gaylord, Gaylord. The fact that our courses and professors and classmates become so much more than just “school." We are able to bring dreams to life and accomplish work that we would have never known we were capable of, without the encouragement and support of those around us. 

Now that I have graduated and transitioned to working in a fast-paced agency, my story has changed from when I was walking the halls of Gaylord Hall six months ago. Whether I’m collaborating with a nonprofit, a financial planning firm, a government agency or a coalition, I know who I am. Why? Because of the foundation that was laid within me at Gaylord. I have come to realize what I value and what kind of stories I want to help others tell because I know the power and impact of a story.

Every individual’s narrative is different, but each is meaningful and worthy of being told. My love of people and a desire to find ways to connect with them is what drew me to the field of public relations in the first place. Now, with a degree from Gaylord College in my tool kit, I am equipped and ready to keep creating intentional moments and telling the stories of the people, organizations and companies around me. 

I am so grateful for the ways Gaylord College has played a role in my story. I will always value the four years I had to learn and grow. Now, as I have joined the family of strong Gaylord and OU alumni, I am excited to partner together and continue telling the story of our treasured Gaylord College. 

About Meredith Rasnic:
Meredith Rasnic graduated from Gaylord College in May 2020. During her time at OU, she chaired the Gaylord College Ambassadors, was a member of The Crimson Club and served on the lead team with the OU Office of Leadership and Volunteerism. She also worked as a campus tour guide and was a member of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) and Kappa Alpha Theta sorority. Meredith is now working at Saxum in Oklahoma City in the client service department. In her free time, you can find her on a walk or on a mission to find the best chocolate chip cookie recipe.