Gentleman. noun. “a chivalrous, courteous, or honorable man.”
I could find no man more worthy to carry this distinguished title than South Carolina’s very own Walker Richardson.
Walker is a biology major at the University of South Carolina. He is currently on the Dean’s List and the President’s List for his astounding academics. On top of that, he is conducting a private medical research study, as well as managing his very own student organization. He plans to attend medical school after college where he will train to become an orthopedic surgeon. He is ambitious, hard working, and determined to reach his goals.
I met Walker my sophomore year of high school. I was sitting alone on a bus after my friend left me and a fifteen year old Walker came and said “do you mind if I take a seat? A lady should never sit alone.” He took a seat and began to introduce himself and ask about myself as well. Upon reaching our destination, he grabbed my bags without being asked and walked them to my car.
Through his maturity, he has grown no less chivalrous. To a lady, he is alway the one to open your door, walk closest the the curb, offer his jacket, and give up his seat for you, even if you have never met. He calls his elders “ma’am” and “sir”, and I have never seen him pass a serviceman, woman, or veteran without firmly shaking their hand and thanking them for their service. However, his kindness is natural. It doesn’t not feel forced, for it is the way he was raised and it is a part of his character he is content to display.
Walker displays his noble character through community service as well. He serves through a multitude of organizations where he has volunteered at retirement homes, helped raise money for the Omar Shriner’s Children’s Hospital, coached a Special Olympics club, and so much more. He can accumulated over one hundred service hours just in the past year, however he does not boast of his dedication.
Though Walker is kind, he is strong in his character. He stands up for his beliefs and is quick to call out those he feels are defacing basic moral value. He lives his life based on biblical principals and he strives to make a difference in the world one step at a time.
I admire the man he has become and hope that men like Walker continue to keep the spirit of the gentleman alive through not only their actions, but the content of their character.
