Sometimes life is crazy, hectic, chaotic, and just plain overwhelming, and giving up seems like the only option. However, as Dory says in "Finding Nemo," when life becomes too much to bear all you have to do is "just keep swimming." I find this motto to be true in my own life, and I feel as though others should live by it as well.
No matter how bad things get, or how stressed out you may be, you just have to keep going and push through. We often feel as though we can't go on, but how many times have you thought that in the past? I know I've thought a million times that there's no possible way I can make it through a situation, but here I am, and somehow everything managed to work out. If you think about it, there is really no other option than to just keep swimming, just keep moving, even if you aren't sure what the hell you are doing or where you are going. As long as you keep moving everything is going to be okay and you will make it out of whatever mess you are in. Trust in the fact that everything will be okay, and if it's not okay, it's still not the end.
Whether we think we can do it or not, the sun is going to rise and set every day and life is going to go on. We are so much stronger than we think we are. As one of my favorite songs says, "If you're going through hell, keep on going." You really have no choice if you think about it, you wake up every morning with the choice to let your life take control of you, or to take control of your life. Don't just survive, live. Life is going to throw so much bullshit at you, and you have to pick your head up and just tell yourself to keep swimming. Swimming isn't easy, sometimes you have to go against the current and fight hard to stay afloat, but eventually you make it to shore and are stronger because of it.
Life can feel like you are drowning a lot. Sometimes I feel like I've been thrown into the ocean with rocks tied to my feet and everything is surrounding me and suffocating me to death. But somehow I always manage to find my way to the surface and can breathe again, and you can too. No matter how hectic or out of control things may seem, just choose to swim instead of sink.
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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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