- A year goes by very quickly. The older I get, the more I realize that time is truly precious. As cliché as this sounds, it is so imperative to live life to the fullest. Don’t waste time; go try something new.
- People will promise not to leave you. They will. This will make you sad. That’s okay. This can happen multiple times. That’s also okay. Get back up on your saddle, the world is full of people who need your love.
- Love is not defined by time. You do not have to know somebody for months or years in order to love them.
- Just because you love someone for months or years doesn’t mean that you can’t fall out of love. Time both destroys and heals.
- It’s essential to tell people how you feel. It will both create and destroy relationships. Both of these things are okay.
- Your friends will not always be there for you. But, your siblings will almost always be there for you. You should not take advantage of that.
- It’s important to remember that you need God just as desperately on your best day as you do on your worst. When life is hard to handle, pray. When life is smooth sailing, pray. Never lose sight of Who got you to where you are.
- You do not need any life advice from somebody who is in high school. They are just as clueless as you are.
- Becoming familiar with something bad helps you appreciate something good. Side note: Don’t let yourself become too familiar with something bad.
- If something is unfair, do not tolerate it. Write a lengthy letter of complaint and have your best friend proofread it. Send it.
- God has a better plan. I am eternally grateful that things did not work out the way that I once wanted them to. “Jesus replied, ‘You don’t understand now what I am doing, but someday you will.’”
- You can not be happy with other people until you are happy with yourself. True satisfaction comes from within. Other people can’t make your happiness.
- “Wear sunscreen.” Because sun poisoning is the worst thing that’s ever happened to me thus far, and it was completely preventable.
- Having a few meaningful relationships is truly better than having a lot of artificial relationships. Surrounding yourself with a few people who truly build you up and want to watch you succeed in the long run up is much more rewarding than surrounding yourself with a multitude of people who are shallow and temporary.
- Your parents are usually right.Usually. Okay… Most of the time.
- You cannot change a person. You can be encouraging and inspiring, but you cannot expect to change someone. That’s not your job.
- Criticism should be accepted with an open mind and a closed mouth. If you do not agree with somebody’s advice, don’t take it. But it’s essential that you remain semipermeable at all times.
- The world is so much bigger than one can even imagine at 18 years old. Take every chance you can to travel and explore. Make life an adventure, and don’t let opportunities slip away from you.
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This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Luckily, many colleges offer a number of ways to take part in campus and community life, without forcing you to dedicate all of your time to these organizations. Here are a few ideas!
1. Look into Housing and Dining.
Many first-year students start off college life in residence halls, and the Housing & Dining network throughout campus often provides multiple opportunities for students throughout the year. Many buildings have student community councils that work to create policies and events that make the dorms a more welcoming home for residents. Becoming a community assistant (or the students who work the desks at the front of many halls) is another easy way to have a consistent, well-paying job only minutes away from your room.
If you really enjoyed your housing experience, consider applying to be an RLA, or, if the school offers it, help to teach the first-year community. You'll get the chance to help support new and returning students over the year, and many of these positions also cover major costs like board and meal plans.
2. Pay attention to campus postings.
This advice is more obvious, but it still gets overlooked a fair amount. Even on a busy day, taking the time to stop around campus and look at the flyers advertising clubs and events can draw your attention to something that you never would've noticed otherwise. Students on many campuses also chalk the sidewalk to catch students' attention while they walk to class. Just make sure that the event you're interested in hasn't taken place already!
3. Find common interest groups.
One way to find friends and get involved is to focus on what you're passionate about. Have you always loved to sing? Do you enjoy playing video games? Is photography your favorite past-time? Have you always wanted to join Greek life? Whatever you love devoting your time to, chances are there are organizations around school who are focused on the same thing. Check the student life section of your university's website, or stop by a student organization fair at the beginning of the semester.
4. Join an intramural sports team.
If you're the athletic type, you've probably heard of intramural sports. Often offered through the Rec Center or the residence halls, most colleges often offer various indoor and outdoor sports to take part in throughout the year. Personal favorite? Mini golf.
5. Work on a cause that you care about.
Whether you're passionate about a political group, a social cause, or a religion, working with people who value beliefs similar to yours can be an easy way to meet people, get a better sense of your own identity, and promote causes that are important to you. Look into getting involved with College Democrats, Republicans, or whatever party that you belong to. Find a club that supports social issues, from women's rights to protecting the environment. If you're religious, look into student organizations based on your faith.
6. Join a club related to your major.
Even if you're not entirely sure what you want to do after school, finding a club or organization related to your field of studies can benefit you long after you leave the classroom. From career-related workshops to conferences to professional connections, these groups have a lot to boast.
7. Get an on-campus job.
If you have the time, need to work, or want to save a few extra dollars, finding a job on or near campus is a time-effective way to build up your bank account and gain work experience. Check in your residence hall (see #1), at local businesses and offices, or make an appointment with your school's career center.
8. Volunteer.
When you're caught up in school life, it can be hard to think about the bigger picture. Volunteering your time to people (or animals/an environment) in need puts things in perspective and allows you to feel good while making a positive difference. Check if your college town has a volunteer page, or look up local organizations requesting help.
Best of luck this year! Get out, and get busy.
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