As a child, I thoroughly enjoyed Dr. Seuss books. His unique mixtures of poetry, alliteration and imagination have sparked the creativity and imaginations of youngsters for generations. In fact, many adults still enjoy reading Seuss books, and, like me, often find new meaning behind the rhyming, chiming words on the page.

One evening, I was reading “If I Ran the Zoo” to our son. The book focuses on a young boy’s dreams of what kind of animals he would have at his zoo. Upon my  more mature reading, I noticed that tucked away in the middle of the book was a bit of career advice. While Seuss probably didn’t intend for this to be used in such a way, its simple yet poignant message merits review:

And that’s what I’ll do,

Said young Gerald McGrew.

If you want to catch beasts you don’t see everyday,

You have to go places quite out-of-the way.

You have to go places no others can get to.

You have to get cold and you have to get wet, too.

So, what significance do Suess and Gerald McGrew hold for you? 

You are chasing something better.

Gerald McGrew was chasing exotic and imaginative beasts for his extraordinary zoo. You are chasing dreams and goals for you and your family—a better job, a pay raise, greater quality of life. That’s why you’ve decided to pursue a degree at MVNU—to make you and your career extraordinary.

You are traveling to places on your journey that others will not.

Young Gerald noted that to catch the beasts he sought, he would have to go unexpected places. Students’ journeys to obtaining their degrees vary greatly. One may have many hours that transfer from previous college experience. Another may have no previous experience. Still another may have extensive training accumulated throughout his career that may count for college credit. Whatever your situation, you have chosen to embark on a journey that not everyone is able or willing to take. 

      You will do whatever it takes to reach your goals.

Gerald McGrew endured extremes to find what he was searching for. While you won’t have to get cold and wet, you will face the challenge of balancing the everyday demands of life: work, family, school, extracurricular activities, and more. These can quickly become unbalanced, but you are willing to make the adjustments necessary to keep priorities in check and complete tasks responsibly.

You are committed.

Gerald wanted an out-of-the-ordinary zoo that would contain beasts like no others ever seen before. He showed his dedication to this goal by exclaiming, “That’s what I’ll do!” Above all, he was committed. Like Gerald, you are showing your commitment to your development and your goals by creating time in your busy schedule to complete your degree.

Take a lesson from young Gerald McGrew—don’t be afraid to dream wildly and pursue the opportunity to live out those dreams. You’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish!