College is for Fun

Some people describe their college experience as the best years of their life. It is easy to see why when college is the chance to express yourself, make new and unexpected friends, while learning in and outside the classroom! My advice to you is to have fun, explore, and live your best life.  However, I also ask that in those brief (read: very brief) quiet moments you get, ask yourself this question. “Why am I here and what do I need to accomplish?”

The reason I ask you to take this time and reflect is because you are at a turning point in your life. All things are good in moderation. So make sure to find the balance of having fun and remembering why you are in college.  If you find yourself struggling to reflect or be present in the moment, I recommend taking a few deep breaths, listening to a quiet song, or taking a walk in the *Fingers crossed** nicer weather coming to campus. Two minutes of deep breathing and being mindful practiced a few days a week has been shown to provide enormous health and mental benefits. After you have taken this time to quiet your mind, try to answer these questions:

• What do I hope to accomplish after college?
• What steps do I need to take for the future I envision? 
• What is my timeframe for these steps and plans?
• How can I utilize my resources to help me?
• Is my goal and the steps I need to take realistic?

Whether you are in your first or last semester, it is never too early to have a goal and make a plan to reach that goal. After all, goals are just dreams with deadlines! If you find yourself struggling to answer these questions, do not worry! The Career Center is here to help. We can advise you on different internships you may need, what to write on your grad school essay, and help determine if you need a tutor so you do not fail “that” class.  We are here to help you find the balance you need to have fun and do what needs to be done to reach your post-graduation goals. 

Life is about balance.  So if you read this entire blog, I would rename it “College is About Balance.”

Lorraine Massiah

Assistant Director for Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives