Gabriella's Window: Five Tips on Enjoying Your College Experience to the Fullest

Getting involved in college is crucial. Students who get involved on campus are more likely to be successful, attentive and over all- have more fun while in school!

I know for many students, getting involved can be a daunting task. Where should I go? Who will be there? What should I go to, or not go to?

First things first! Go to everything! Okay, not really. But really, do your best to attend events going on campus when possible.

1. Don’t feel like you have to go alone

Ask a friend and/ or roommate to go with you, going to an event with a friend is an easy way to get involved without having to step too out of your comfort zone!

Plus- everything is more fun with friends! Student activities plans on campus events that range from Tornado Tuesday (Free snacks! Yum!) to Intramurals and even student-wide talent shows (Coffeehouse- a personal favorite of mine).

2. Get plugged into a Life Group

Getting plugged into a life group is a great way to get involved, meet new people but to also make time for yourself to spend with God. I know how easy it is to get busy and distracted with homework, family, work and on top of that classes.

Life groups provide a fun relaxed time to catch up with others, as well as having a set time for worship! If you are looking for another way to worship on campus, there is a student led gathering every Thursday at 9 p.m. in the Chapel. The Refuge is a great way to also spend time with others as well as an opportunity to worship God.

3. Remember, no one is too cool for school

I remember my freshman year believing that if I went to events I couldn’t have “too much fun." I saw it as “uncool”. Little did I know that I was only harming myself.

If and when you go to events, try to have as much fun as possible! The events planned are meant to be stress free, fun and even a little bit distracting from the day-to-day life.

If you hear about an event going on around campus that you are interested in, don’t worry about other people! Other people are there because they want to be-just like you!

4. Take time for yourself

Now I know I said to do every and all the things you can earlier. However, do not do every and all the things at your own expense. There is such thing as over-involving yourself. It is very important that you remember to take time for yourself. There needs to be a balance.

Getting involved is great- I highly encourage it! But if you are so involved that you are not doing your homework, sleeping or taking some time to simply relaxed, you may begin to feel a little overwhelmed. Combat this with slowing down, reading a book, watching some TV or even taking a nap.

5. Have fun

College is a great time of our lives where we get to explore new things and meet new people. It can get stressful at times but overall remember that college is a place where you can grow and learn about who you are.

Try to not take life too seriously! (While still taking classes and school work seriously.) Enjoy your time here at Concordia!