How Getting Involved on Campus Changed my College Experience
Why being apart of smaller communities is so important.
When I first came to college, like a majority of people, I didn't know anyone. I was pretty scared and for some reason, more nervous than excited. I often was homesick and overcome with a sense of dread that I didn't belong at Miami University. Now as an incoming senior, college has been a transformative experience, and Miami is a place I love being.
The first thing that helped me achieve this was the support from my family, not only support, but tough love. I did not have a car on campus, the only way of getting home was for my parents to come pick me up. They, thankfully, set a boundary that I should stay at school for the first six weeks of the semester. This was terrifying to me because not only was I homesick but I was having trouble adjusting and making friends. I knew staying at school for the first six weeks would be beneficial though, and it was. By the end of those six weeks, I had just finally found a group I fit into. I got into my routine and was starting to enjoy school. Going home was refreshing at the end of those six weeks, but I was excited to come back to school afterwards--not terrified.
I spent time with my friends and continued to get used to life on this campus, on my own away from home. I picked up an Italian minor and decided to study abroad that upcoming summer. Being able to travel with my peers and professors while learning a new language is something I am so grateful to have experienced. I even got to travel a bit more after to visit my other friends studying abroad.
By the time I got to sophomore year, I really did love it here. But, I felt something was missing. I seemed to have too much time on my hands, and not have things I was truly passionate about here, other than my relationships. I knew I loved fashion, but didn't know how to get involved, and then I heard about MUF&D. I joined, alone, as a general member, and then ended up applying on a whim for the PR/Marketing Assistant. I got the position and got to help create content for the club, promote the fashion show, and actually set up and work the largest student-run fashion show in the nation.
I found that I loved being involved in new things, meeting people, and exploring my passions so it didn't stop there. I ended up joining the Pi Beta Phi sorority on campus where I have met some of my close friends and held the position of Director of Community Inclusion. I wasn't sure if greek life was for me, but I put myself out there anyways.
Around the time I was joining all these new things, an old professor sent out applications to be an Undergraduate Assistant for the following semester. I enjoyed the content and had done well in the class and thought "Why not? It's a great resume builder." And although that's true, it ended up being so much more. I have made amazing relationships with my professor and peers who are in the program with me. I also have gone so far out of my comfort zone and have improved so much in public speaking, organization, and just being confident in myself.
At the beginning of my junior year, I really wanted to apply for UP Magazine, but wasn't sure what role I would be best in. I ended up applying for nine positions... hoping I would be chosen for one. I ended up being hired for three positions and I love them all so much. Now, as a rising senior, I'm applying to be a director on one of my teams, and I'm so excited to see what the future holds
All of this to say, putting myself out there and doing things I was scared to do has lead me to find meaningful mentorships, sincere friendship, grow in my passions and make unforgettable memories.
Your college experience is what you make of it, and I am so grateful for what I have made.