Anyone who knows me, knows that I am a sentimental person. The end of the year brings about a certain nostalgia. There is a focus on what has happened in the past year. While I reflect on 2016, I am thankful for many people in my life. I tend to take them for granted, so I thought I would take a moment now to thank those that made 2016 wonderful.
To my parents:
Thank you for all that you have given me. This year, you supported me as I studied at Samford, worked at camp and worked as an RA. These things have all grown me and made me a better person. Thank you for supporting me financially, loving me well and continually reminding me that you are proud of me, whether I feel like I have it all together or it's all falling apart.
To my siblings:
I miss you more every time I have to leave. Y'all keep me laughing. Thanks for all the snaps of Lulu. Y'all make me so proud with all you do and you set the bar so high! I'm thankful that I am the oldest, because you both have exceeded the expectation that I set.
To my friends at Samford:
Thank you for all the life chats, Sonic runs, belly laughs, trips to the caf, hugs and words of affirmation. Thank you for laughing with me and crying with me. Thanks for showing me true friendship that is founded on God. Each of you holds a dear place in my heart.
To my DeSoto girls:
Thank you for getting me through the hardest summer of my life! It was y'all that made me able to laugh at myself and enjoy the hard times. It was such a growing experience and I learned so much from working with y'all. I hope a fraction of your joy, patience, humor and grace rubbed off on me!
To my hometown homies:
Another year of "When is your fall break?" and desperately hoping we can cross paths when we are both home. Thanks for reminding me of all the times in years past--the good, the bad and the awkward! I love hearing about how y'all are doing as we are scattered across the country.
This year brought about some of the hardest times of my life, but through those hard times, I had a support system of family and friends who showed me the love of Christ. They made the hard times good and the good times better. It is because of them that 2016 was a great year!
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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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