There are over 50,000 students enrolled at NYU, each drawing their own track through the university. Selecting 10 to feature in WSN’s 2013 Most Influential issue was like sifting through a box of pencils trying to find the sharpest. And often, the definition of sharp changes with each selection committee.

In our issue this year, we again endeavored to name the students who have retraced NYU’s trajectory toward an ideal. But we also searched through the nominations to find the people who have successfully empowered others. Instead of pencils, we looked for the sharpeners who honed new passions so others could sketch their own marks on the community.

Each individual in this issue has not only inspired members of the community to succeed, but they also encouraged them to pass on the influence. Some are unintentional leaders who followed their instincts. Others have worked to actively reshape our university by strengthening the connections worldwide and across the East River.

We would like to thank everyone who contributed their time and efforts to create this issue. Our talented writers, photographers and videographer worked diligently to capture the candidates in print and in images. This issue would not have reached stands without the help of our Editor-in-Chief Jonathon Dornbush, Web Managing Editor Hanqing Chen and Creative Director Lyanne Natividad, who were invaluable members of the selection committee and assisted in every step of the process.

This beautiful issue was designed by our Special Issues Director, Kaleel Munroe, who wanted to shine light on the unsung heroes of the university. The committee sought to create a visual representation of some students who are overlooked, those who are deeply rooted in their beliefs and others who are naturally driven to act. We wanted to recognize the accomplishments of those who work thanklessly for the benefit of others. This year’s selection committee also decided to reduce the number of finalists from 15 so writers could dedicate more time to understanding and describing these individuals.

Take the time to read their stories, and we are convinced you will find them and their actions inspiring. You might even rewrite your own definition of influential.

— Jordan Melendrez & Amy Zhang