Making the Most Out of Your Semester at Arcadia
Remember high school? (I know, tough question to be asked today.) Flashbacks of moments ranging from awkward and messy to exciting and celebratory. At the end of the day, everyone says something along the lines of, “it flies by,” for better or for worse. And once you make it to college, whether a first-year or senior, you might notice the same phenomenon– days might feel long, but the months (and semesters!) zoom by. Here are some tips on how to make the most out of your time at Arcadia!
As they say: “steal like an artist!” Arcadia’s Student Engagement team is known for holding some pretty iconic events: Drag Bingo, Movies on the Green, Woodstock, and more. Why not take these ideas and run with them? Host your own drag contest in your dorm/apartment with your friends. Have a movie night here or there; get a group of musically inclined friends together and have some jam sessions to favorite songs. Better yet, if you particularly enjoy a campus event, let your RA know; they can host a similar event, where you’ll have even more access to snacks and free goodies!
One of my favorite choices for a game night: Overcooked! 2. Other favorites include Wii Play, Minecraft, or, for board game lovers, Scattergories or Uno.
Make some phone calls! Being a part of this generation has taught us a stigma against reaching out. We feel ashamed for “spamming” our friends, and afraid to hang out with possible friends that are currently just acquaintances. Recognize that fear for whatever it might be for you, be it fear of rejection, of ostracization, or of being made fun of. Whatever the case might be, don’t be afraid to call a friend and ask to hang out or to grab a bite to eat. Spontaneous get-togethers, though not for everyone, can make some of your best college memories.
Find the “why” in your classes: It can be tough, I’ll be completely honest. But part of staying grateful and mindful at the same time involves reminding yourself what you’re looking to get out of certain experiences, even including going to class. Enjoy your moments with classmates and professors; if they’re not so enjoyable, focus on your aspirations and reasons to be in class. Let that guide you through the course; even if you’re not having the most fun, remember your ultimate goals and let them keep you motivated.
Friends can be made in the strangest of places! Keep an open mind wherever you go, but especially when it comes to meeting new people. On a recent trip to Wawa, some friends and I ran into a lovely woman and her sweetheart of a dog, Lucybell. We chatted with her and learned she plans to move away with Lucy and explore the world, outside of Pennsylvania. We’ve run into her again on Easton Road, and her friendly face (and a fluffy Lucy!) is always a welcoming sight, turning moments into certified college memories.
