As today is National Coming Out day, I came out to my friends and family as bisexual. I like men and women but I lean towards men more. When I came out today, I felt as if a weight has been lifted off of my chest. I have been hiding in the closet for a little over a year now because I didn't know what to classify myself. I knew I wasn't just into men or just into women. I was exploring my sexuality for quite sometime. Many times, I felt as if I was misunderstood. I felt confused, I felt stuck, I didn't know if my family was going to accept me. I kept telling everyone I was straight, why? I told everyone that I was straight because I was embarrassed to mention that I liked more than one sex. I was afraid that I would be viewed differently if I wasn't straight. I stand as part of the LGBTQ community with pride. I have supported it for many years but many times I was judged. For instance, I have been told hurtful things. People have bluntly told me that people who are bisexual are unfaithful. People who are bisexual tend to cheat more on their loved ones. There is no such thing as bisexual. All of those things hurt me, it felt like a bullet pierced through my heart. Being bisexual is a real thing, it is a beautiful thing. It is not just either your straight or your gay, there are many different terms. Just because a person is bisexual does not mean that they will not be loyal. That does not mean that it will be harder to be in a relationship. All of those hurtful, painful myths are completely false. I am loyal, trustworthy and honest. I never have and never will cheat on someone. Today, I have decided to come out of the closet. A day where people will be more accepting of others. A day where I can finally feel free to express myself and be happy with the way I am. Today, I stand as a strong individual in the LGTBQ community. I am bisexual and I am proud of it! The LGTBQ community is a beautiful community and I am so happy to be apart of it! This afternoon, for the first time, I have opened up about my sexuality. I always had the biggest fear that my family wouldn't accept me the way I am. This afternoon, I opened up to my mother that I am bisexual. She told me that she will always love me, her view of me will never change, and she is so proud of me for opening up to her. I have not opened up to my father yet but I know he will love me no matter what! I am going to open up to the rest of my family and friends, I am hoping that they will except me for who I am! I am a strong woman. I am bisexual and I am so proud of myself for coming out today♥!
Recommended for you
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.
Trending Topics
Trending Stories
Best of Politics and Activism![RBF]()
![woman in black turtleneck shirt smiling beside woman in black shirt]()
