I am a stay at home, most people think being a stay at home isn't a "real job". Now, the people who say don't know what its like to stay home with their children all day and also clean house, do the laundry, and make dinner, they would realize how difficult it actually is to be a stay at home mom. Not only am I doing all that but I also have to take care of an 8 week old baby. It's not easy, and some days are better than others. Being at home all week and most weekends is hard. Don't get me wrong I love my sweet baby girl, but after being home all week and not doing anything but house work gets really boring. Not only that but when you have a screaming, unhappy and puking baby its hard to get anything done at the house. Then when you go out and someone asks you what you do and you tell them you are a stay at home mom they look at you like you are crazy! Little do they know that you take care of the baby or toddler all day long. Then you have the stay at home moms that are also going to school and taking care of the house work, the baby, and doing homework. All the stay at home moms know exactly what it is like to stay at home. Its rewarding and I wouldn't trade it for the world, but I am a very social person, so being home all day is super difficult for me, but knowing at the end of the day my baby gets one on one time with me is a true blessing. So the next time that you bash a stay at home mom just remember that they have more than one job and they don't just sit around all day long like everyone thinks. I wouldn't want it any other way knowing that my baby is getting one on one with her mother and learning so much from me. I love her and I love my "not real job".
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 Health and Wellness![RBF]()
![woman in black turtleneck shirt smiling beside woman in black shirt]()
