I love looking on the bright side. Ever since I was little, I was known as the smiley child. Most would agree that I just never stopped smiling! (And let's be real, it's still true today! I just can't help it, "I love smiling, smiling's my favorite!") As a kid, I just smiled because I was polite and I liked making others happy. As an adult, I smile because I'm optimistic! I love seeing the good in people and situations.
This is proving to be quite hard in the pessimistic world we live in now.
Our news outlets are filled with sad stories, criminals and scandals. There are corrupt politicians everywhere we look and we are taught that "happily ever after" is only found in fairytales. People see the glass as half empty and seek to find the bad in every person or situation. They see the worst aspects of our world and the people in it.
While our world is filling with negativity, I'm going to try and shine my light as bright as I can. I'm going to spread love, kindness and other good qualities as far as possible. I know I'm only one person, and I may not be able to change every person whose path I cross, but gosh darn it, I'm gonna spread my happiness and positivity whether they want it or not!
How can I stay optimistic amongst all the negativity? I owe a huge portion of this to God. I know that He has a perfect plan for all of us and is leading us all down a good path if we let Him! With the decision of accepting Jesus into my heart came a responsibility — a responsibility to shine for Him, to show the world His grace, mercy, and love. This helps a ton when trying to stay positive!
People think 2016 sucked and took too many celebrities' lives? There's a time for everyone, and their times all just happened to end in the same year. Think of the good times of this year, I'm absolutely sure not every moment was terrible.
People think there are only bad people out there? What about the people in the peace corps, people who volunteer their time, or people working on cures for diseases? Those with big, kind, giving hearts ARE out there. Promise.
People hate the snow? Look at how beautiful it is when the sun shines on it! Hate the rain? The plants have to get water somehow! Hate the sun? Nobody hates the sun, so I think we're all good there!
So as we're entering the beginnings of 2017, find the good in every day, in every person and in every situation. Be happy and get out there and spread your joy!!
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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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