As I’m sitting on the campus lawn, soaking in the afternoon sun and perusing through my chemistry notes while I wait for the dinner buffet to commence, I wonder how I got here. Why did I have the privilege of enjoying afternoon greenery against a backdrop of historic brick buildings? Maybe a better question to ask is, does the general college atmosphere lead students to live a more selfish lifestyle?

Let’s not get confused. I am not suggesting that college promotes selfishness. It is safe to say that attending college is a learning experience in independence and accountability. What I am suggesting is that the structure of college varies greatly from that of outside academia, and students unintentionally become committed to selfishness to stay afloat. Southwestern students are not paying $55,000 annually to leisurely attend classes. Students must be active self-advocates. In all the academic success, it is difficult not to lose sight of others.

Here are some tips to help keep life in perspective:

1. Volunteer: Not with a service fraternity or for academic credit or any other resume-worthy incentive. Just pick a cause you personally care about regardless of friends volunteering and start helping out. This type of volunteerism disengages you from indirect ulterior commitments so you can really get out of your head and into the heart of a good cause.
2. Keep in touch with loved ones: You might text your mom if you have a problem or if you want praise, but what about for the daily little moments? Taking the time to tell your brother good luck with his football game, or forwarding your dad an article that reminds you of him are simple ways you can stay connected every day and be reminded that there is a world outside of your own.
3. Earn money: This one is also selfish, but it does not have to be. Even though your minimum wage job probably will not pay off loans or cover the semester’s tuition, it will act as a buffer between your wants and needs. Making your own money opens your eyes to the costs of your tastes. You may find a renewed appreciation for time, hard work, and supportive people.