As of yesterday, we are in the midst of Marquette's Mission Week 2008. Every year, Marquette sponsors Mission Week with various programs, speakers, services and events. But how many students take advantage of the numerous awesome opportunities available that many put so much work into making happen? Just taking a look at this year's impressive lineup of events in the Mission Week program, and considering attending or participating in one will most likely be worth the while. The programs can be found at the Alumni Memorial Union information desk and more information is available at marquette.edu/missionweek.

Mission Week is an opportunity for college students to do some soul searching and to truly look into becoming a "person for others." It is an opportunity to learn about one's place in the world and how a Marquette student can truly "be the difference." These short, inspirational sayings are written all over Marquette's walls, Web site and the paper materials we receive from various things, thus they may seem a bit cliche to the average student.

However, the administration and the university's historic dedication to these ideals are right in line with what education should be. College is a time for education, yes. But true education goes far beyond attending classes every day.

"Faith Doing Justice" is the theme for this year's Mission Week. As stated in the Mission Week program, the theme reflects "our commitment to a Marquette education that integrates intellectual rigor, spiritual depth and concrete action for a more just and peaceful world."

Not bad. Sure we complain about the thousands of dollars that we are spending on our education here at Marquette. However, it is reassuring to realize that our University is putting a lot of effort into making sure that our education here runs deeper than the GPA we achieve.

Issues addressed by the events in this year's Mission Week include health care, immigration, sexual violence, leadership, service to others, diversity, racism, almsgiving, media ethics, war and peace, and homelessness. Learning more about these topics can help students to be inspired to take on a topic for themselves and to figure out how each individual's gifts can serve a specific area.

You may have noticed the wooden framed signs around campus expressing quotes from inspiring persons. One sign pictures Pedro Arrupe, with a quote saying, "What you are in love with, what seizes your imagination, will affect everything."

We encourage you to find out what that is for you, and Mission Week presents the perfect time to do so.