After more than a week out from the election, I’m so heartened to see my friends and family reaffirm what they believe in. To stand against bigotry and tell it like it is. I’m so proud to be amongst such people of character. This isn’t a piece for self-righteousness, but rather a challenge to be a decent person. So here is my pledge to my conscience and to all of you:
I will not be idle. I won’t retreat into my privilege and batten down the hatches for four years to weather the storm. I will stand up for those who need protecting and ask for help from those who are in a place to lend a hand. I will be an advocate.
I will not succumb to intolerance. I won’t let a bigot’s words define me. I know I am worth more than what one pompous man thinks of my sex. I will not endorse it, I will not ignore it, and I certainly won’t stand for it. A divided country is not a strong one, so I will do what I can to lift people up instead of building walls to keep them out.
I will be a supporter for those who need help. I will use what privilege I have to do my best in their defense. I will not let Trump’s racism, xenophobia, sexism, and exclusionary dogma to become normalized. I will not let people explain it away as the new normal. Racism isn’t acceptable, xenophobia isn’t tolerable, sexism isn’t admissible, and excluding communities of LGBTQIA and non-Christian religions is indefensible. And I won’t treat them as anything less than they are, signs of cowardice.
I will a proponent for peace and justice—pillars the Unites States was built on. I am turning my feelings of dejection and grief into something useful. I will be empowered and in turn, try to empower others. I will acknowledge and own my privilege and use it for others who don’t have the opportunity to hide behind such privilege.
I challenge you to do the same.
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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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