When we were in elementary school, we all wanted to be just like our friends. We wanted to wear the same clothes, play the same games and have the same lives. We did what our friends did, which helped us fit in. Now, fast-forward to college…
“When I first arrived, I just wanted to be like everyone else and fit in. I was willing to make friends at all costs. It didn’t matter how little sleep I got, how much money I spent or how much alcohol I consumed. If my friends thought I was cool, then I felt good about myself. I went to bars, met girls and had a good time. I didn’t think there was any harm in that, but now I realize I was wrong.”
This story isn’t mine. Rather, it’s the story of so many other freshman boys at Miami and around the country. I’ve heard it in student government hearings, when freshmen sit across the table from me, trying to avoid an underage drinking violation on their disciplinary record. I’ve heard it from my neighborhood, where childhood friends of mine find themselves kicked out of school and looking for answers. I’ve also heard that story from some of my close friends, who struggle to find their purpose in our ever-changing world.
These aren’t just stories, but consequences. Following the crowd is something we have all done at one point or another. In elementary school, it’s normal, but in college, it’s dangerous. If you don’t believe me, go to Uptown Oxford at 1 a.m. on a Friday night or at 4 p.m. on a Saturday, and you’ll see what I mean. Some kids go to the bars with explicit intensions of what they want that day to bring, but there is a silent majority of those kids that are just following the crowd and are weary from the circumstances they get themselves into. They don’t just risk getting in trouble, but causing serious damage to their health.
These are situations that so many college kids find themselves in: trying to fit in and make friends. Let’s face it, unlike the crowd, your heart cares about your well-being. Your heart has your future and your goals in mind. Your heart is wiser and more intelligent than the crowd that surrounds you.
Be different than the others. Get away from the crowd and follow your heart.