Bo Desmond- "If you expect someone to do something, you have to be willing to do it yourself first."

Words. The world continues to function because of them. This blog is possible because of them. Our daily interactions are based around them. Words have meaning and depth, and possess the ability to build someone up or tear them down in moments.

Bo Desmond has always been fascinated with words. He loves language and seeing how it plays out in its many forms: literature, film, articles. Each style is a unique art form in itself, and Bo sees the value in them all.

We found Bo at his College of the Ozarks workstation in the Center for Writing and Thinking. There, he is able to work creatively with students on their papers and projects, using the tools he is learning as an English major.

Upon first glance, one can immediately tell that Bo is far from the imagined 417-area resident. His workspace is full with literary classics that span centuries, and the aroma of freshly ground coffee beans hangs in the air. His style, communication skills, and overall demeanor are representative of an artistic lifestyle far beyond what one might expect from a stereotypical English major. Bo does not just study or teach English. He lives it.

“I believe that writing is the greatest form of expression, without doubt. I have such a passion for literature and it is something I want to share with others.”

But that was not always the case. During his childhood, growing up in Garden Valley, Texas, Bo was more interested in exploring the great outdoors than sitting still and focusing on a book. He had a wild imagination, aided by the rural location of his family’s home.

“I instinctively was drawn to rambunctious activities, but as I matured, I focused in on books and reading. I grew to love reading and literature, but could never really get a grasp on writing. It was always more challenging. Good thing I became an English major!”

It was a family friend who unknowingly inspired Bo to pursue English as more than just a hobby.    

“My sister’s friend Charlie would be at our house fairly often, and on this particular night I happened to be reading when he arrived. He looked at me and said ‘It’s awesome you’re reading. I wish I would have done that at your age’. He did not even realize it, but he had impacted the direction of my life with that small comment.”

By the young age of 14, Bo had already made up his mind to study English as a career, determined to receive a doctorate and eventually teach. Selecting such a goal is remarkable, but sticking to it takes more stamina than many young people are willing to put forth.

“My parents and sisters were always very encouraging of my goals. Just observing my parent's interactions with each other, the love that they have for the family, it has always inspired me.”

Bo’s perseverance could also be attributed to the work ethic instilled in him by his father.

“My Dad was always focused on what it meant to do your very best in everything. Hard work was always important in our family. Giving 100% was the only acceptable option. It is something I still try to do in my work today.”

When Bo began considering universities to apply for, College of the Ozarks was never an option on his list. That is, until he began to research the work program and opportunities available at C of O.

“I knew a C of O graduate, so I thought I might as well research it. I started to read about the work program, the ability to graduate debt free, the academic programs; I thought it sounded pretty impressive! My parents and I drove up for a tour and interview and I just knew it was right.”

Now approaching his senior year, Bo is reflective on the education he has received at C of O; an education that has developed his character as well as mind.

“When I first started school here, I found the rules to be incredibly challenging. It is just my personality to question the ‘why’ behind things and I found some rules frustrating. But I knew to make it by, I would have to do it.”

It was not until recently, however, that Bo changed his perspective.

“I have started to understand that rules and guidelines are from God. It is not just a matter of doing what we have to in order to get by, but we follow rules as a way to honor God. Now, I am able to see the value in our rules, and I follow them because I want to.”

As Bo nears graduation from College of the Ozarks, his next steps are not set in stone. Although he intends to pursue his doctorate and become a professor, he is unsure where that may lead him.

“Becoming a professor has so much appeal for me. It provides such a unique opportunity to pour into the lives of students and to be not only a mentor, but a friend and example. I know that God will take me where He needs me to go in order to fulfill that. As far as I am concerned, it is all in God’s hands.”

Through his teaching, Bo plans to continually emphasize the importance of leadership.
 

“I want my students to become thoughtful and compassionate leaders. If you see someone stumble, you should pick them up and point them in the right direction. We have to have leaders who can do that for others and are accountable in that for themselves as well.”

Bo believes that leading by example is crucial, and one can see how that influences his leadership even today.

“I try to live my life and lead with a simple concept in mind. A good leader is not above doing any form of hard work. If you expect someone to do something, you have to be willing to do it yourself first.”