After every semester I, like many students, take the time to look back at the semester and see how it went. What went well, what failed, what could have gone better, and how my actions could have changed the way everything panned out. This year, I've already begun looking back at my junior year experience with fondness. One of my favorite parts about this campus is that it creates a great atmosphere to get involved if you seek out the opportunity. And oh boy, are there opportunities. Whether they are academic, social, organizational, or other, if you take the time to look and apply yourself, you will be able to find so many opportunites at Rochester. Fully realizing this, I've reflected on what I wish I had known going into this year and my college experience at large:
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Your biggest limiting factor is what you believe you can and cannot do.
This year I've pushed myself to do more than ever. I have seen that shape into my active involvement on four student organizations' executive boards, multiple other organizations, and I've loved every minute of it. However, as late as the beginning of this semester, I thought there was no way I'd have time to do it all well. Yet, after experiencing a semester of being scheduled for hours upon hours each day, I've succeeded. If I let the malicious thoughts of doubt take root, then I would not be where I am today. (Get involved in student organizations.) -
Take ownership of your words and actions.
Whether we like it or not, we are externally defined by our words and actions. How you behave, what you permit, what you say, and what you don't say ultimately express to others what it means to be you. Think about this for a bit and ponder the question of whether your words and actions are truly representing who you are and who you want to be. If they aren't, change. -
Schedule yourself.
Use a calendar. Write down your appointments by hand. Whatever method works for you so you can stay organized and on top of your own schedule. This will not only help you be a more organized person throughout your life, but it will take away so much stress. It's a minor change with major results. -
All leadership is social.
This may seem inuitive, and to some degree it is. To be a leader you have to talk to people, right? While true, the statement means more than that. Being an exemplary leader consists of having a strong vision, the purpose and resolve to work toward that vision, and the ability to work with others toward a common goal. All three of these categories involve social communication at many levels. Exposing your vision to others, describing to them the worth, and showing them the value of your plan all takes commincation. It's something I initally took for granted and wish I hadn't. Even the best ideas can fail if they are not adequately communicated to others. In focusing on this communication, it facilitates all aspects of leadership and allows for more time to focus on larger issues.
So go forth and prosper. Don't be held back by your inhibitions. Instead, build purpose and drive throughout your life, and don't let anything prevent you from having an awesome experience!
Do you have any tips for a great college experience? Be sure to comment below!