Ever since I can remember, my father has only had five requests when it comes to academics. "Be good. Work hard. Learn a lot. Have fun. Be safe." Throughout elementary school, middle school and early high school, I couldn't get out of his car at school without getting a kiss on the head and being reminded of those five rules. When I got my license and started driving myself to school, these words were the last thing I heard before I slammed the drivers side door and drove off. Now that I'm in college, I only hear this when my parents are dropping me off or leaving after a visit. Ever since move-in-day freshman year, when I go to hug my dad goodbye and he whispers those words, I burst into tears. Gets me every time. It reminds me of the little girl I was on that first day of kindergarten. I was so happy that Dad was so proud of me for being a big girl and only crying a little when he left.
I think about it now and laugh. Nothing's changed. I'm still that little girl with wavy blond hair that liked the color pink more than she liked most people. I still want to make him proud; finish college, go to grad school, get a job helping people, and who knows what else. They may have only been five rules that stayed the same over time. However, they always had a hidden message and has evolved as I have gotten older.
In elementary school:
Be good
Follow the classroom rules. Don't you dare let me get a call from the principles office.
Work hard
Try your very best. If you don't get it right the first time, try again. If you fall, "rub some dirt on it," get back up, and do it until you don't fall. Ask for help only after you have tried to do it by yourself. It will help you grow.
Learn a lot
Use that little sponge-like brain and soak it all in. Knowledge is power.
Have fun
Play tag at recess. Have an ice cream after lunch. Make a lot of friends.
Be safe
Get out of the building when the fire alarm goes off. Don't talk to strangers. Don't try to jump off the top of the play structure, that's just plain dumb.
In middle school:
Be good
Don't be one of those mean, cliquey girls. Be kind to everyone, but don't take any crap from those mean, cliquey girls either.
Work hard
Learn to balance school with sports and dance. Pay attention in math class, even though you hate it.
Learn a lot
Don't pretend to be too cool for school, you aren't. A's area lot cooler than F's.
Have fun
Be able to laugh at yourself. (Because for the love of God I was an awkward duck at that age), but never doubt your self worth.
Be safe
Don't get trampled by the high schoolers. Don't let anyone hurt your feelings. Tell me when something is wrong.
In high school:
Be good
Don't get detention. Don't skip school. Be kind (again, always).
Work hard
As the workload gets harder, I expect that you will work harder. Put in the effort and you can't fail.
Learn a lot
Start to focus in on what you like to do, but don't push any subjects to the side. I expect equally high grades and reports in every class.
Have fun
Go out with your friends. Enjoy the freedom of being able to drive yourself. It's important that you never forget to goof around every once in a while.
Be safe
Be home at a reasonable hour. Be careful with alcohol. Don't do drugs. Wear your seatbelt.
In college:
Be good
College isn't just for parties. Save your drunk stories for your mother, they make me cringe.
Work hard
If we're paying for it, you better be working for it.
Learn a lot
Learning is all up to you now. The more you put in, the more you will gain.
Have fun
Be spontaneous. Make memories with your friends. You only have four years.
Be safe
Don't walk around by yourself at night. Keep your phone on. Make sure you have cash when you go out. Wear a coat. Protect yourself. Protect your heart.
While the message behind these rules has changed over the years, two things have remained constant. My fathers love for me has never wavered and I, like that little girl in kindergarten so long ago, still want to make him proud.
Thanks Dad.
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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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