Ever since I was around the age of six, my father always told me to never be afraid to explore the world. I have always known that all my dad wants is for his kids to have everything he wasn't able to have. When my dad was young, he never had a gameboy, new clothes, or even had enough to eat. My dad went to work everyday as soon as he got out of school. Some days he didn't go to school because he couldn't afford not to work. He would come home at two in the morning, exhausted, but everyday he woke up as soon as dawn hit. My dad worked his ass off for everything he has now. The poverty issues he endured made him the resilient and humble man he is today. When I was growing up, the material things meant nothing to me. I was just happy to spend every weekend with him and my cousin Jasmine. I really look up to him and it's not just because he is my father. He has been through a lot and he still wakes up every morning feeling blessed. My dad is everything I hope to be one day. I hope to be as wise as him when I become older. My dad is only thirty-five years-old. He has a heart of gold and the mind of a man who has lived a lifetime. He has taught me so much in such little time. Next year, I will be nineteen. I still have so much time ahead of me and plenty of conversations with my father. I never get bored of our talks, nor will I ever. I always look forward to talking to him because he gives me the best advice and only wants me to do better than he did. I dedicate this article to my father. I know things aren't the same and its tough to see your first child grow up so fast. I'm sorry that sometimes I wasn't the most behaved but what kid was. Thank you pa for all your stories. Thank you for all the nights you slept on the couch so I could sleep on the bed. Thank you for all your sacrifices. This is for you.
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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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