Community service plays a major role in my life. I learned at a young age about the importance of helping the less fortunate and getting involved. Throughout college, I participated in many community service events. I believe community service kept me focused on the important things in life. It’s easy to get lost in your own world, especially during college, when your only worry is yourself. I made it a personal goal not to lose sight of what was important to me and what I valued. Relay for Life was one of my most memorable college events. Cancer touches many lives, so it was important to show my support. The event was held on the campus of Rider University, in the gymnasium. The all-night event, from 4 p.m. to 6 a.m., saw around one thousand participants. A band played all night, keeping spirits up. Some people were able to walk laps all night; I walked for as long as I could before I eventually gave in to sleep. This fall, I will again participate in a community service event, the 2010 Walk with Us to Cure Lupus, on Oct. 15 in New York City. This is my first service event in NYC, and I’m happy to be participating. I hope everyone takes the time to get involved this season. — Amanda Smith, advertising and editorial coordinator