While a taste for the finer things in life and a budget for ramen noodle dinners do not tend to coincide, it's important for college students to realize that being "cultured" is not exclusively for the rich and famous. To be cultured, in reality, is to be mature enough to thirst for knowledge, passionate enough to seek enriching experiences, and wise enough to find beauty in every corner of the world. And always remember that it is possible for you to open your mind without necessarily opening your wallet.
1. Travel...anywhere!
Not being able to afford a luxurious get-away to Paris or Rome shouldn't stop you from exploring different parts of the world. Work with your campus's study abroad and financial aid offices to find an international program best-suited to your needs. If studying abroad is not an option, look into short-term travel options that your school offers; certain clubs or campus groups organize leisure or service trips during winter, spring, and summer breaks. If your budget still can't bend, keep in mind that road trips to new places or quick flights within the country still expose you to different cultures and lifestyles. And when all else fails, remember to dream. Just the desire to see a place on the other side of the world already gives you an appreciation for culture. If you can't afford it now, do your research, develop an interest, and set your heart on making it happen one day. Make the best of what you can afford and remember that the experiences, not the locations, create the bonds and memories that last a lifetime.
2. Take a humanities class that interests you.
It's easy for a college student with a clear goal for the future to get tunnel vision when selecting classes. While college is a time to prepare for the field you choose to pursue, don't forget that it's also the part of your life where you develop your interests and explore the general academic world. Maybe a history or philosophy class seems like a waste of time for bio majors, but it will allow you to delve into a realm of new information, and if nothing else, gives you a nice break from your required classes. From introduction to painting, history of film and cinematography, and Victorian literature to war and peace studies, ethics, and women of the world, there is definitely a class for you to enjoy. One course has the power to change your life, don't miss that chance.
3. Get hooked on books, films, and music.
Literature from any time period or genre is an incredible art form that opens the mind and soul. Books are not just words on pages; they are lessons encrypted in stories, metaphors, and complex characters. It doesn't have to be Shakespeare to be sophisticated or cultured (but that would certainly help). If sitting down and cracking open your latest find from the library is not your idea of relaxation, consider discovering new TV shows, movies, and music. For history buffs, there are plenty of binge-worthy historical dramas that will satisfy both your inner couch potato and your eager mind; consider shows such as Downton Abbey or Reign. If that's not your style, try stepping away from the crude humor of instant-gratification TV and expose yourself to movies and shows about real-life relationships, travel, food, or government and politics. For the romantics, perhaps discover the world of foreign and/or black-and-white films, both of which give you a taste of a different lifestyle. For those who connect through music, consider using apps like Spotify to explore different categories and styles. Every genre of music, from show tunes to classical to rock, has a rich history of unique, evolving artists expressing their passion. You don't have to see an orchestra, ballet, or musical to embrace the culture of music, and the same can be said for other forms of art. What matters is the openness to a time period, lifestyle, culture, or perspective different from your own.
4. Take advantage of the locations in your area.
Check and see if there are any theaters, museums, libraries, or historical exhibits in your hometown or college town. Grab some friends or family, pick a place, and make a day trip out of it. The worst thing that could happen is you spend an hour at a museum that you didn't end up liking or saw a musical that wasn't really your taste, but at least you went out and tried something. Even if it's simply discovering a cafe as a work or creative space, find out what your town or city offers. Growing up in my hometown, we always complained that there is nothing to do in Connecticut, for example, but just Hartford alone has two renowned theaters, beautiful parks, the Mark Twain house, the Harriet Beecher Stowe house, an outstanding science center, an extensive art museum, and countless restaurants that offer a unique "flavor" to the city life. Culture experiences worth having might be less than 20 minutes away from you--don't let the opportunities pass you by.
5. Learn a foreign language.
New technology makes it easier than ever before to pick up a language that interests you. Even if it's just a few basic phrases, knowing other languages helps you connect to other cultures and communities. On an app called Duolingo, I'm currently learning Italian and Dutch while brushing up on my old Spanish skills (but for those of you who are sane, I would recommend starting with one language only). Language-learning apps take away the anxiety that a lot of students have when practicing in a classroom setting. If you're not understanding something, it can be embarrassing to answer questions out loud in class and panic-inducing when the professor moves on while you're still stuck. Free apps like Duolingo and Memrise allow you to practice at your own pace without the performance anxiety.
6. Pay attention and be interested.
So many students pass through their college years without taking advantage of their educational resources. Yes, you're allowed to have fun, but don't spend four years of your life drunk and indifferent. Show up to class and pay attention; it's easy and I can guarantee you'll learn something. Don't be embarrassed to have an interest in something that others may label as "weird" or "dorky." It's better to have a passion than to sit through life idly. Form opinions and have debates--your mindset will be altered, challenged, and strengthened. Observe. Be mindful of what you think and feel, what you sense around you, and who you're with. Ask questions and seek answers, even if it means googling questionable things at 2 AM. Read articles, reflect, find hobbies, advocate for a cause that's important to you. Be present and be passionate--it's free and you won't be disappointed.
