It goes without saying that the world is a very angry, rude place to call home. It is nearly impossible to turn on the television without hearing about a natural disaster or a horrible crime in the community. Few people think that there is any goodness left in the world. But I want to encourage everyone to embrace kindness, generosity, and hospitality at every opportunity, but especially during the week of February 11th - 17th.

This week is Random Acts of Kindness Week. While every day should be seen as an opportunity to be kind, this week is the perfect opportunity to “pay it forward”. The purpose of this holiday is to spread kindness and prove that there are still good people in this world and to help someone else without expecting recognition or praise in return. A grateful smile or simple ‘thank you’ can have a lasting impact.

So, instead of being rushed and self-centered, be a pebble and start a ripple effect!

Below are 10 random acts of kindness suggestions for college students who want to participate in Random Acts of Kindness Week!

1. Pay for the next student’s meal in the dining hall.

2.Hold the door when you enter/leave a building.

3. Have a face-to-face conversation instead of texting.

4. Focus on the present moment, not a screen.

5. Leave an encouraging note or doodle in a friend's textbook or notebook for them to find later.

6. Compliment a stranger!

7. Bake cupcakes for your favorite class or academic advisor.

8. Call your parents/grandparents just to say hi.

9. Thank the maintenance crew for all their hard work to keep your school awesome.

10. Tape a $1 bill to a vending machine. Post an encouraging quote or photo online.

Make this week (and every week) Random Acts of Kindness Week!