College is a wonderful time in your life. You begin to come out of our shell and shed your high school ways to take up adult responsibilities. There is something exciting about being able to take a step out of your comfort zone. For the first time in your life you're (almost) on your own to live by your own rules, but sometimes that life style can get a little stale.
During your time in college you should definitely make some stops home other than holiday breaks (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Spring break). I'm not saying to come home every two weeks but maybe two or three times a semester.
Coming home gives you a sense of relief. You don't have to worry about getting food, cleaning your dorm, or annoying neighbors. Your home is your safe zone from all of those small nuisances that we're back at school. This relief can do wonders for your health over all because for the first time in a while you can just relax with your family.
There's nothing better than sleeping in your bed after not being able to for so long. Dormitory beds aren't the most comfortable beds around, even with A mattress pad on top. Coming home to your bed and snuggling up in your blankets makes you feel young and a little carefree, but especially safe.
Another vital part of coming home is to see your pets. This goes especially for dog/cat owners. Have you ever noticed how crazy happy your dog or cat gets when you come home? They obviously miss you a lot and definitely notice when you're not there. I'm sure you equally miss them as well. If we all could, we all would bring our animals to school to live with us.
Nothing is better than a home cooked meal though. Going to dinner or lunch with friends is great, but it can't really beat dad's homemade meatloaf. You can't deny family dinners are way better no matter how big or small your family is. If you don't go home often your parents are more likely to make your favorite meal, which makes coming home even better. For once ramen noodles isn't your source of nutrition. Knowing that you're home means the cabinets are probably full of snack and junk as far as the eye can see. Score!
Laundry for once isn't a huge hassle, or a costly one at that. No sharing or mistaking someone's clothing for yours, or waiting for a machine to open up. Everything is there and it's completely free.
College makes you realize how wonderful home actually is. Its a place of safety and happiness. Making trips home is not only important for you but also important for the people that love and support you. Phone calls can only go so far. So make sure you take a trip home one of these weekends and see your dog.
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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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