I remember the first day that we met like it was yesterday. It was our junior year in high school and I was walking across the practice field to go join my fellow percussionists when I stopped dead in my tracks. For some reason unknown to me at the time, I had an overwhelming urge to look over to my left. When I turned my head, that's when I saw you standing there in all of your perfection. You were in a group of other band kids just talking, but I could sense there was something different about you.
You were absolutely oblivious to the fact that those around you seemed to hang on your every word. In my mind I didn't think you knew just how much effect you had on others, and it was in that moment I decided that I needed to be your friend. And that was the day my life changed forever. At first we had the typical "new friends" conversations but eventually we kind of just effortlessly turned into best friends.
There wasn't a day that went by that we didn't talk. Whether it was at lunch or when we were at home, it was one of the first times I felt like someone actually cared about me. You opened up your heart to me and loved me unconditionally. You were my inspiration to follow Jesus and I can never thank you enough for that.
In the moments that I had breakdowns and told you that I didn't want to live you didn't run away. In fact you held on and told me that you loved me and didn't want me to die and for the first time that I can remember, I felt love. That is the greatest gift I ever received. You held my hand and offered a shoulder to cry on in the darkest of times. You've always been and always will be a constant source of love and laughter in my life.
My biggest wish in life is for you to realize just how much you are loved. For you to realize just how amazing and awe-inspiring you truly are. You are by far one of the greatest people I know. The fact that I get to know you and call you my best friend is an honor.
So all in all I just want to say thank you. Thank you for being my friend, my rock. For being one of the only people who understands me and knows what I've been through and still chooses to love me even when I don't love myself. You've seen me at my worst and you didn't back away like everybody else. You have no clue how much you mean to me and how much I love you. I don't know what I'd do without you.
At those moments that I wanted nothing more than to die you gave me a reason to live, and that's the greatest gift I've ever gotten. So I'm sorry if I'm a bit crazy and annoying, it's just I care for you so much and I don't know how to fully express it; hopefully this suffices. Thanks for being in my life and not leaving me when so many others have. You always have and always will be my other half. You are one of the greatest things to ever happen to me, and I can't wait for more CVS parking lot conversations.
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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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