It's common in today's society to post on social media whenever something happens. Good, bad or ugly, someone on social media likely knows about the experience that you are going through. While I am active on social media, I don't always share what is going on in my life. Instead of telling the people of Twitter and Facebook what is going on in my world, I do something completely different. Whenever something exciting happens to me, my phone is immediately pressed against my ear, talking to someone very special.
"Hey Mom, you'll never believe what just happened!"
College is the time where people start to spread their wings and make new friends. They start to find out what they truly like and dislike. They start to yearn for the typical "college experience" and like to go out on the weekends and have fun. Some people love going out to parties, some people like to go dancing at a club and others like to have movie nights in their dorm. For me, I've always preferred spending time with my Mom, watching our favorite shows on television, and talking about what is happening in our lives. Sometimes I'll even stay home on a Saturday night so we can have a
Girls Day! Our Netflix-binge festivals with Panera sandwiches will always be my
favorite thing.
It's
weird to me if my mom doesn't know what's going on with my life.
I call to tell her about that cute boy who finally noticed me, about a
cool radio station I just found or even to tell her about how I tripped
down the stairs in front of a million people.
She knows about horrible dates I went on, the classes I am taking, and she even knows about petty fights I've gotten in with my other friends. Just because I have made an abundance of new friends and have had new experiences at college doesn't mean I will ever forget my first and favorite friend.
Talking to my mother always lifts a huge weight off of my shoulders. It is amazing how just one person can make you feel like you have your life somewhat in control, or make you realize that you are overreacting way too much. My mom is my biggest advocate, my role model, and my forever friend. I want to share parts of my life with her, and I love spending time with her. A lot of people tend to grow more distant from their parents when they head off to college. However, I did the exact opposite. Since coming to college, my mom and I have gotten way closer to one another. I love her more and more every single day.
So yes, I do talk to my mom every day. When you're lucky enough to have an amazing best friend, it doesn't take much convincing.
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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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