Dear Dad, Papi, Joe, brother, Tio, Abuelo, Husband, and so much more, Happy Father's Day. This is your 17th Father's Day as my dad and every year I find myself reflecting on all of the amazing things you do for me. When I was in Pre-K, you would wake up extra early to do my hair, eat breakfast with me, and drive me to Doral Academy elementary school every morning, without fail. The process changed throughout the years, I started to do my own hair, I started to skip having large breakfasts, and eventually, I got my own car. Now, I drive myself to school. Throughout all of this, you never once complained. You reminisce lovingly with me at times, and you're always proud to see me. The young woman who would not be where she is today without your help. You've always pushed me to be better, while reminding me not to be so hard on myself when I do everything I can. Our rituals of Sunday morning breakfasts and my yelling at you, "It's green dad, go, go, go!" or "It's red dad, stop, stop, stop!" at every single stop light, will forever and ever be held safely in my heart. These may sound like simple things, but a father's simple actions shape young men and women to be everything they want to be. Now a senior in high school, I find myself looking into the near future and realizing you will no longer be in a room down the hall. Although this is a blessing and a curse, I will miss your hugs and your "goodnights" and every small thing you do in between. I appreciate you, Dad. You have raised myself and all four of my siblings, molding and shaping us into the people we are and the people we aspire to be. Without you, we wouldn't have our mentor, honest advisor, friend, protector, and uniter. As for me, I wouldn't have my best friend. The person who always makes me laugh, the person who knows what I'm feeling by a simple look on my face, one of (I love you, mom) the people who encourage me to "reach for the stars" no matter the obstacles I face. Thank you dad, for being MY dad. And thank you dads everywhere, for staying patient (mostly), for showing us how to do anything we want to do, for telling us when we're in the wrong and how to fix it, and for loving us unconditionally. I'm sure we all think we have the best dads in the world, and we should all show our fathers how much they mean to us this Sunday. For the ladies, he's the man who will interrogate every man that ever comes to meet your parents. And as long as you're happy, he will be too. For the guys, he's the man who showed you what being a man is all about. For all the dad jokes, the handy jobs, and mostly, the love. thank you for being you. And as for my dad, thank you, Papi, for everything you have done and continue to do for me. I love you, Happy Father's Day.
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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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