No one really tells you what it's going to be like in your 20s. When you're in high school, you're counting down the days until you can move out and be on your own. Don't get be wrong I'm still counting down the days until that happens, but a part of me wants to wait as long as possible. Right now I have it good. I live at home with my parents and I'm still figuring out what to even do with my life. I pay minimal rent and I don't really have many expenses. I have a roof over my head and food in the fridge, but of course every young adult wants to be independent and on their own. I'm at that point where I don't want to listen to my parents but in the back of my mind I know they are right. All they keep saying is "go to school," "go to school," but school doesn't really feel like the right path for me to go down. I tried it and it didn't last long. It felt pointless to go and not know what I was wanting to major in. I still don't even know what I would want to major in. Once you graduate, everyone knows how hard it is to jump into the real world, especially with trying find what career path you're going to take and whatnot. All I want in life is to find a job that makes me happy, like actually happy. I want to be happy to wake up in the morning knowing that I'm doing something to help people. I know that's difficult to find these days but it shouldn't be too much to ask for, right? It's my life and I want to be able to choose the way I live it. I want to be happy and right now I just feel at a standstill. Do I go back to school or do I continue with my everyday life and try to find a better career? Everyday I question what I'm doing or what I should be doing. I just hope I find the guidance I need. I know I cant be the only one going through this. I feel like everyone at least once in their 20s questions what their doing in life. I hope that anyone reading this knows that you're not alone in your struggles. Almost everyone struggles some way or another. Sometimes I just got to remind myself to take my own advice and try to live every day to the best of my ability.
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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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