I am a firm believer that everything happens for a reason. Regardless of what you believe, it is hard to deny that there is a reason for everything, good or bad. I may not know everything, but I am confident that God put you in my life because he knew you were just what I needed. You came into my life during a very difficult time for me. I had just re-started college after completely destroying myself during my first attempt at college. I was scared, I knew no one, and even though I had a very strong support system, I still felt so vulnerable. So it's 8 am on January 5th, 2015. I walk into my yoga class and see a room full of unfamiliar faces, I do my thing, reconnect with a girl I went to high school with, and continue on with my day. Next, a four-hour business class that sounded nothing less than torture. I walk in and see another room full of unfamiliar faces, expect one, a girl that was in my yoga class just an hour before. I will always be thankful for Oakland Community College, and that yoga class, because without it, I wouldn't have met my best friend, and I wouldn't have had a reason to confront you about having both classes together. People often say their friends are their soulmates. I don't know if we are soulmates or not, but we connected so easily and so quickly over something so simple as having two of the same classes. Not even a week later we were spending time outside of class and quickly becoming inseparable. From concerts to shopping, and making me follow a boy throughout the mall just so you could find out what he was doing. I should have realized then that I'd do anything for you. Randi, I WILL do anything for you. We have known each other for just almost a year now and I can't see a life without you. I've seen you at your worst and best, and never once did I ever consider you less than my best friend. Thank you for making those four-hour business classes worth going to. Thank you for going to concerts with me and doing crazy things that somehow you always talk me into doing. I am a better person having met you and I want you to know how much you mean to me. Having you here at college with me is such an amazing experience and I can't wait to see where life takes us and what crazy adventure we go on next. Also, thank you to your Mom and Dad for welcoming me into your family, you all mean so much to me. Lastly, thank you for giving me hope when I was hopeless, I don't think you will ever be able to grasp all the amazing things you've done to put such a positive outlook on my life. I am a better person because of you. Thank you so much.
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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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