Who is afraid of that sound the scissors make before it takes a chunk of your dignity? That awful slicing sound that slithers in your ears and wraps around your heart like a sliding serpent? Yes you all know what I’m talking about. I am talking about haircut anxiety. For every one person in the world who has been blessed with a perfect haircut, there are at least 5 other people who got cut the shorter end of the stick. People with haircut horror stories so bad, some never bring it up. Instead they let that haircut die either under a hat or in a hair-tie, never to surface again and tell its ugly pony-tale to a world so ready to laugh. This is the adventure, that I, an avid opposer of haircuts for just this very reason, will be going up against. I will face the demonic scissors, and I will cut my own destiny regardless of what is thrown in face. Because despite the fact that hair seems like something fragile and unchangeable, somehow we forget that hair can rebound better than anything in life. With either money or time one can fix any hair style go away. While it may seem like a larger-than-life commitment, something truly unprecedented from you, I urge you all to embark on this journey with me. Grab that long hair and tell yourself, it doesn't have to be big change, but this year it is gonna change. There are so many final decisions in life: where to go to college, what to major in, what job you should take, which alcohol to buy, and what outfit to wear, that a simple hair cut shouldn’t even matter in the faces of all these larger than life decisions. So, if you’re that one person out there who's sitting on their ass with a head full of hair and the hope for a better new year but lacking the guts to do anything about it, I urge you to grab your anxiety by the roots, so that you can re-mane in control.
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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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