For all college students, especially freshmen, it’s important for everyone to get involved in campus life sooner, rather than later.
College is not just about getting an education. While that is very important, there’s more to college than just studying and doing homework. College provides so many opportunities for students to meet others, have fun and do things that make them feel right at home.
During my freshman year, I experienced homesickness. Even though I was only about an hour away from home, I struggled at first being away. But I was able to overcome that homesickness because I got myself involved and kept myself active while I was on campus. Doing that has reduced my homesickness, as well as my anxiety, tremendously.
Dating back to my freshman year, I have attended various sporting events. I have gone to football games, basketball games and hockey games. Going to those has allowed me to have fun with my friends, classmates and those in the Ferris community. Cheering on your student athletes and being a part of a fun atmosphere is always a great time.
Intramural sports are another way to get involved on campus. I played flag football for only one year, but I enjoyed it. I got to make new friends, play a sport that I love to watch and I actually got to play against other Ferris students. The good thing is that you don’t need tons of experience in order to get accepted into an intramural sport. They’re open for all students to participate in and have a great time alongside one another.
Besides sports, the university has various events that students can attend. These include karaoke nights, bingo nights, movie nights, homecoming, prom and so much more. I’ve been to a couple karaoke nights and went to the Second Chance Prom last year.
Being a part of an atmosphere where students are not afraid to be themselves is truly amazing. Taking friends to these types of events can create memories for all of you that will last a lifetime.
In the classroom, I am always introducing myself to my new professors and I’m saying hi to new and previous classmates. While some may find it easy to sit in the back and be quiet, sometimes that may not be the best thing to do. How will your professors and your classmates get to know you if you don’t talk to them?
Getting to know your classmates and professors is essential to succeeding in college. Your professors will have a better understanding of who you are if you talk to them. Plus, you never know what similar interests you’ll have with your classmates and, which can be the start of multiple friendships.
There are also various groups that you can join, such as RSOs, clubs and student-lead organizations. I think it is important for students to become members of one of these because they can help you make new friends, feel more connected to your community and it gives you something more to be a part of.
The importance of getting involved with campus life early is that it builds more opportunities for you to enjoy your college experience. The sooner you reach out to RSOs and the sooner you attend sporting events and campus events, the better you’ll be for the rest of your college career.
College is only four or more years. It may seem like a while, but time goes by quickly. I advise every student to get involved as soon as possible and find various ways to stay active with friends as that will ensure for a better college experience.