To the strong women in my life,
I consider myself extremely fortunate that I have so many of you in my life who
I can look up to as strong role models. These incredible women, whom I admire for their strength and grace, did not
become strong because they had it easy, but became strong because they
experienced times where things would not work out. They trudged through storms
and held the weight of the world on their shoulders. They would build enough
courage to stand up, only to be knocked down again by life's punches. Every day
they approached their challenges differently. Despite however difficult these
challenges might have been, these women made sure that they rose to the occasion
and handled them with class. While each one of these ladies are different than
the next, they all have helped me become who I am today. Regardless of who you
are or how long we've known each other: thank you.
I've learned from you and have spent countless hours quietly admiring your ability to walk with the strength and conviction that is needed to conquer the universe.
You've shown me how important it is to wake up and choose strength every day.
I've eagerly followed your prominent footsteps, hoping to make as much of an impact as you have on the world. Thanks to you, I dance a little crazier, sing a little louder, and walk a little taller.
You've shown me to ditch the glass slipper and help me embrace shattering the glass ceiling instead. Barriers are meant to be broken, and the ability to fearlessly rise to life's challenges is a lesson I would soon learn time and time again. Luckily, it was a lesson that you made sure I never had to endure alone. Whether I fell short of my goal or achieved success, you were there and always were willing to catch me and to push me further than I thought was possible.
You wake up and fight every single day for what you want out of life. Your voice is powerful and can move mountains. It has since lent volume to mine and has helped find my own voice. When there are times when the ground beneath you rattles you to the core, you stand firm. Because of you, I never gave up. You've taught me to love my quirks and to embrace my imperfections. The confidence you have in yourself has poured into me.
Thank you for being you, because you have inspired me to be me.
Love,
A Future Strong Woman
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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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