My brother always tells me, "You can't argue with someone who already has their mind made." I always seem to start arguments over what seems like nothing to others, but to me it is everything. Every "argument" is a chance to teach someone something. Yes, I agree there are moments when having opposing opinions is okay and even favored. For example, your favorite type of ice cream or your favorite place to eat out (I really like food). But when your versions of opinions preach racist and oppressive narratives, that is where I draw the line.
Opinions I do not think should be considered opinions because they are instead rooted in discrimination and prejudice include but are not limited to -- your thoughts on an opposite race, your thoughts on women's right (unless you are a woman), any thought that in some way contributes to the oppression of a group you do not directly identify with. You're entitled to say you do not agree with the Black Lives Matter rioting and argue they should find a more peaceful way to protest. BUT you cannot in the same breath say it makes you angry when someone silently protests; for example, the uproar over Colin Kaepernick kneeling during the national anthem. You cannot repress someone's first amendment right just because you don't agree. I completely understand why he would feel he shouldn't stand for a nation that never stood for him. YOU are entitled to your opinions but don't get angry when I argue why you are wrong. Do not tell me I'm "too passionate" or I'm "too argumentative" because I choose to stand up for what I believe in.
Yes, I may not change their opinion but I can grant them a perspective from a different point of view, I can help them understand why the opposition feels the way they do. If you do not speak up you are contributing to the ignorance and you help it grow. I refuse to be fertilizer to an already flourishing plant rooted in discrimination. So I will stand with Planned Parenthood. I will stand with the Black Lives Matter Movement. I will stand with women fighting for equality. I will stand for what I believe. I will continuously speak up until the injustices being faced are overcome. I will continue to be passionate no matter the circumstance. It takes one person to speak up for a difference to be made. I may not change your mind but I sure as hell will try to change your perspective. I do not expect you to leave our conversation, which some may call an argument, without an understanding of where I am coming from. My family always told me I would be a lawyer when I grew up because of how often I would argue over what I felt was right. Maybe I was not meant to be a lawyer but an activist.
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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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