We've all had that entry level class, like Bio 101 etc., and there in the back of the class, with tumbler in hand, hat on and sitting in sweats is the senior. That one senior who didn't quite get that class finished, or maybe saved it for last. Well this year, that's me. I'm "that senior", and here are the top ten things I want to accomplish from the back of the classroom.
1. Sit in the back, all by myself, with my feet up on the row in front of me.
Because why not? If you're really a senior and taking freshmen classes, odds are you can't care all that much, and the freshmen will be too scared to talk to you anyway. Soak up the extra space.
2. Answer all the questions as loudly as possible.
This one is just to scare some of the quiet ones into talking a bit more, maybe I'll speed up the process, as this "coming out of your shell" thing can take a while for some.
3. Bring snacks to class, loud, crunchy, snacks.
This one is just annoying, like downright annoying, but people did it my freshmen year, so I feel like I should just return the favor, reasonable right?
4. Use a laser pointer to confuse students.
How funny would this be? It'd be like playing with cats, but the cats are students, and the only one who gets angry is the professor! (Don't worry I won't actually do this one, might get into trouble here...)
5. Convince the professor to let me play Adele until all the freshmen have been seated.
A) I'm obsessed. B) Everyone else should be obsessed. C) Adele.
6. Encourage others to participate in as many activities as possible.
Being involved on campus is what has given me all the amazing experiences I've had. I've made so many great memories and have been presented with so many opportunities because of the positions I've put myself in. You never know if you don't at least try, so I hope that incoming freshmen will go to more than just the free pizza meetings.
7. Get as many as possible to join Greek life.
Greek life has changed my life in such a positive way that I want to share this experience with everyone I meet this semester. Granted, it's not for everyone, but it's definitely something to consider. Registration is open at www.sdstategreeks.com for women, and the men's recruitment will happen this fall as well!
8. Show up really sophisticated looking, contrary to the former hat and sweats look.
I think a lot of freshmen underestimate the power of dressing up. The confidence and associated courage that comes with putting on your finest can really be empowering, and could be just the thing that someone needs to get through that chemistry exam.
9. Do something really outrageous that they will tell their friends about for the next four years.
This might be a fun one, as I know a few people with a gorilla suit. Just sayin.
10. Somehow make a difference, even a really small one.
Let's be serious for a moment: college changes your life, whether you want it to or not. In college you find out who you are, who you want to be, who your friends are, you discover the details that push you to be ambitious, and you learn all about your weaknesses. College can be the best time of your life, and also can provide you with some of the greatest lessons and times of strength and growth.
And with that, cheers to senior year! (Or rather semester for some of us!)
