For such a strong presence
one that has held together the existence
of the present day, to suddenly get up
vanish to fly right into the sunset
and away from each of the persevering
eyes that have kept them in their sights
for so long
For such a presence to leave, naturally
is an upset, an uproar to be more precise
the glue's creep has finally cracked
the heirloom family tree has been sawed down
boiling water left burning for too long
is now nothing but raw flame and distorted copper
The doorway left tilted and without a shim
doesn't look down on the glue that gave it the opportunity
to be upright in the first place
nor does the stump left for rot on the front lawn
neither does the pot point a blackened finger
at the stove for its scorch marks and discoloration
But this presence is different, for it is a human presence
it equates to love and happiness
who are we to project our own discrepancies
onto that presence
to take one of our own, and make it like we own one
all at the same time, losing sight to what that
presence actually taught us
that action is life and to do is to live
Like ink fading on a page, the physicality is gone
but the words retain their meaning
each step will be taken parallel to each other
and will always be a step forward
even if they are thousands of miles apart
they will be taken as deliberately as ever,
as if they were to heel to heel
We should revel in this, laugh in this
cry in this, but at the end of the day have pride in this
for this is setting an example
that presence is our family, it is our friends
it is life and love, it is great
it is strong as its ever been
So take pride in this severance because
no distance between you and them has changed
keep stepping right along side them
until you mark out your own path
because both paths inevitably lead back,
closer and closer into their arms
until one realizes that that presence
never left us in the first place
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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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