MC offers numerous opportunities for leadership, community, and overall personal growth, which I found to be a bit overwhelming at first. I told myself before I moved on campus that I would put myself out there and do things that were uncomfortable for me because I knew that would be the best way for me to grow and take advantage of my four years here.
As applications began, I decided to just take a chance on the ones that played well with my strengths. I love meeting new people, planning and executing big ideas, fostering a meaningful community, and being a part of a team. I wasn’t sure if I would be selected for any of the teams I applied for, but I decided that putting myself out there was half the battle and that I would end up in the place that I was meant to be.
I ended up having some amazing opportunities to serve not only my peers, but the community around me. I got involved with clubs/tribes, Orientation Team, Welcome Week Crew, Campus Programming Board, Scouts, and other organizations where the goal is to raise up leaders and provide unique opportunities involving services and leadership development. I am very thankful for every opportunity that I have been given to push myself past my comfort zone. Throughout my journey here, I have discovered new things about myself, strengths, weaknesses, etc. that I would not have known otherwise.
With all of that said, my biggest advice for involvement can be summed up into one statement: learn to say no. That is something I was not very good at during my freshman and sophomore years; ironically, it is something that I am still trying to master now as a junior. While each opportunity has potential for growth, there are some points I wished I would have said no to. Overcommitting to multiple clubs/groups caused me to be unavailable to events that are most important to me.
I highly recommend being involved in some capacity, but you should decide for yourself what your limits will be and set healthy boundaries for yourself despite the pressure of others to commit to every opportunity. You will be better off in the long run to say “yes” to the things that are important to you and “no” to the things that might sound fun but will add too much stress and worry on your plate. Your plate should be a healthy portion of everything you love; not everything available. Overindulgence can create an unhealthy mindset. Pick your favorite groups and clubs, and be true to who you are and what is important to you.
Overall, involvement is a great way to make memories and to learn valuable lessons. While being involved, be sure to take care of yourself in the process and say no to things that will push your limits too far!
Court
Sincerely, MC
