June has officially become national pride month. This is a huge deal. Going to a Catholic-dominated school, sometimes conversations can get pretty heated, and sometimes misunderstood. There is a huge myth going around some states that LGBTQIA+ people are not really harassed as much anymore. This is wrong. The LGBTQIA+ community is the most harassed and bullied group of people. With what had just happened in Orlando, it should not be a huge surprise. Now I am not writing this for pity or to start an oppression war, but I am writing this because I want to ask the world how can you spread love? How can you make sure that bullying goes down, and love gets spread? I always wonder why people like Jesus and Gandhi always talked so much about spreading love. They seemed like really happy healthy individuals, so there must be some magic in doing what they do. I truly believe every single soul has the power to change the world. Hearing about oppression and bullying can be hard, but there are always ways to make it positive. You can change it, change the environment around you. Lessen the fear by communicating with people who may be saying things that are not nice, or just ignorant. Now, I am not some spiritual life coach, but I can tell you I am sick and tired of ignorant people in my life. I plan on being successful and even more happy than I am right now. I need love and positivity around me to make that happen. I am getting in a rant because this weekend is the annual pride parade in Chicago. I am going with a group of about three this year, compared to last year which was about nine. Fear has been ingrained in quite a people because of the massacre that happened a few weeks ago in an Orlando night club. I am not one to judge, and would never make a person do something they are not comfortable with. However, I am torn here. I am convinced that now is more of a time than ever to spread the love and peace. Of course, this is just my opinion. I did speak with a few of my work colleges to see how they would have felt if some of their friends did not want to go to something so important (in my opinion). There were mixed responses, and they did say that if a person feels like their life might be in danger you should not disrespect that. I do agree, but part of me still feels like this should be something that would bring my friends and I even closer together because we all believe that love will win. Well, in spite of that internal argument, I am very excited to spread the love this weekend (and always). The parade begins around noon, and you bet I will be in my rainbow gear ready to meet my husband. Happy Pride everybody, spread the love!
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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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