From the moment I took my first breath, my life would drastically change. I was declared a "failure to thrive" baby. That means that I was growing at a slower rate than other babies my age. From there on, I was thrown into the foster system with my two older sisters. At the age of two, I had open heart surgery to close up two holes in my heart. We went through a few different foster homes the first couple years of my life. But a miracle happened when I was four. We were finally adopted. It may not seem like a miracle to other people, or to the people reading this, but if you really think about it what family wants a 4-year-old, a 10-year-old, and an 11-year-old? My family, that's who.
Just to clarify, I don't call my parents my adopted parents. They are my parents. Plain and simple. They raised me, took me in as one of their own, so why wouldn't they be my parents? So my parents adopted us, and we had a family of our own. A family with a mom and a dad. And seven brothers and sisters that were now all mine. Growing up was pretty fun, I finally had a family. And everything changed for the better. My adoption story is a good one. I was lucky, but not everyone is so lucky. I am so grateful for my mom, dad, and my siblings. They didn't treat me like I was adopted. They picked on me and loved me like siblings should. I always think about how my life would be if I wasn't adopted. Who knows where I would be. My biological parents are still not in my life. I don't really know them. However, I did find out that I have a half sister on my biological father's side. I should thank my biological parents for their mistakes because without those mistakes I would never have the life my parents gave me. I am beyond thankful for my parents. Mom and dad, if you ever get the chance to read this, thank you for giving me life. Thank you for raising me and doing everything you possibly could for me. Thank you for caring for me and loving me. You two are my heroes.
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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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