Even though we may never know how the things we do ultimately transform the world, we can recognize the values we hold and commit ourselves to working towards them. For example, I care about having a diverse array of experiences that help me better relate to people from different backgrounds. I care about doing something that someone will remember because it affected his or her life positively. I care about being financially independent and having time to devote to people and relationships. I hope to do more good than harm.
The professionals profiled in my column this semester could articulate what they valued, and they achieved fulfillment when they found ways to steer their work so that it aligned with their value system. Ernest L. Greer ’88 believes in racial inclusivity, so he spends as many hours fighting for enhanced inclusivity in Atlanta’s arts and education circuits as he does working in law. Anne Taintor ’77 devotes her artistic and business skills to making tokens that will make people laugh while encouraging them to question public representations of women. Dan M. Pallotta ’83 finds ways to transform ambitious adventure and athletic pursuits into financial support for causes people care about, and Meg B. Swift ’93 bases her career around the people and organizations that she feels best support the needs of those less fortunate.
None of these Harvard alums would have been able to chart their future paths as seniors at the College, but they probably would have been able to articulate what they valued and thought deserved attention in the world.
Fulfillment will come when we identify our values and act towards them. Whether we are aiming for smiles on the street, tweaks to a system, or a more inclusive discourse, it matters not so much what we do as a job but rather how our work can ultimately strengthen and support our beliefs. In our four years at Harvard each of us has continued to construct and rehearse a unique set of values. When the real world hits us, let’s perfect those values by ensuring our jobs put them into practice.
Ginny C. Fahs ’14 is a history and literature concentrator in Quincy House. Her column looks at Harvard alums who pursued unconventional career paths.