As a college sophomore, I recognize that I've grown a lot since freshman year and even more so since high school. Still, I want to do a lot more growing. The new year is well underway, and many of my New Year's resolutions have fallen to the wayside, but I haven't completely given up. This year, I want to be engaged and I fully support everyone following suit! What better time than the present?
It's February, so I know what you're thinking, but I'm talking about getting engaged in the community. The second semester can be brutal, and it's only going to get busier as the year goes on, so it can be easy to focus on ourselves and surviving the semester. This is where it all goes down-hill -- in what feels like a few moments, it will be the end of the semester and the only thing you'll have to show for it are grades and a caffeine headache. There's nothing wrong with this, really, but it certainly isn't fun and it's not how I want to remember my college years.
Humans are not solitary creatures. Getting out and mixing with our environment is good for us. This is why I dedicate 2016 to making an effort and becoming more engaged. I understand that that's a pretty broad goal, but that makes it all the easier. It's important to stay open minded when looking for ways to get involved. I don't know what I'd like to eat for dinner! How can I be so sure I know how I want to get involved?
That said, I guarantee that there's something for everyone. The easiest way to get involved, especially if you're new to the area, is on-campus organizations, which are virtually limitless in their variety. From the Video Game Association to special interest groups to Greek life, you're bound to find something you enjoy. Think your campus is missing something? Add it. It's completely possible to start your own club on campus, and getting it off the ground is a great way to meet new people.
Being a part of campus life is great, but the world does not end at the edge of university property. It's important to engage with the rest of the world, too. You can start by exploring your downtown area. Love the arts? Go to a show at your local theatre or a restraunt with a live band. Ask around and see how you can get involved. Do a quick Google search and see if there are any volunteer organizations you'd like to get involved with. If it's something in the field you hope to work in, kill two birds with one stone.
We do not live in a vacuum, and we were meant to interact with others. Whether it's just putting aside time to hang out with friends after class or heading an organization, being engaged may make our lives a little more hectic, but it makes it better as well. This year, I want to do more that does more for my life than boost my GPA.
