Like many college students, I could write a book on what I’ve experienced throughout my four years at school. All of the books would have some similarities, yet some major differences. Being a black woman at a private, white, liberal arts institution has a completely other story than most. Although I could write a long piece on the bad things, I would rather focus on the positives. In a few days I will begin my very last semester of my undergraduate experience. Unlike many seniors right now, I can’t wait to graduate. But, I also can’t wait to begin this last semester. I have many things to look forward to before the semester ends. I’m taking five, four-credit courses; I’m overloading and doing the most as always. But I’m excited for each one; stretching my knowledge of public school, and strengthening my artistic skills. This is the semester I got to choose which courses I really wanted. I’ll have Mondays and Fridays off, with no classes and I hope that means I will be able to spend more time having fun in Philly with my friends. The weather will get progressively warmer and brighter, which always makes people feel better. And when a large amount of people are in a better mood, something happens; everyone is affected and more kind. I hope my last semester will be filled of impromptu selfies and random pictures of myself and all of my friends and acquaintances smiling and laughing. I hope I feel light, free and relaxed. I hope my hair stays healthy and gets thicker and a tiny-bit longer to keep me warm in the first few cold months. I hope the weight of school loans and potential jobs do not affect me too much. I hope I can accept the downs and responsibility that life will bring and still find peace. I hope I end the semester with a lifted heart, even with Trump in office. Finally, I hope that all the good things I will experience and feel will affect every single person around me, bringing them joy.
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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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