College can be one of the most terrifying things you will face. Moving away from home, living with strangers, getting up on time for classes, making friends, the list goes on. One of the most important things to do is make friends. It can be hard.
When starting something new, the idea of making friends, being social and getting ourselves out there sounds terrifying.It’s easier to stay under our cute new comforter and binge watch Netflix sheltered away from the world.
While Netflix is great, it won’t provide you with the comfort, and love that comes when you find your group. You know what I’m talking about. The people you hang out with, share secrets, tell your latest crush and have in your corner. They become family and are your best friends.
But here’s the deal, you won’t meet them if you don’t try. It may be uncomfortable, awkward, and scary, but it is so worth it to put yourself out there. I am speaking from experience. I was nervous to meet new people, get involved, and make new friends. My mom constantly reminded me to get myself out there and be a social butterfly.
As usual, “mother knows best.” The first semester was a whirlwind of experiences, meetings, going for ice cream, and hanging out with wonderful friends. I now have opportunities in my path because of a club I joined, and friends I am looking forward to going back to when the second semester starts. It can be scary, but the end result is so worth it.
When you decide to get out into the world and be social you are opening yourself up to incredible opportunities. I recently met a US Senator, got to be on a Facebook live for CBN, and met an author of a book I own because of a decision to get out of the house and take the opportunity I was given.
The memories, friendships, and connections that can be made by simply being social and putting yourself out there aren’t even in comparison to hanging in your dorm by yourself.
Unfortunately though, sometimes you will experience rejection and let downs. Maybe that guy you like doesn’t like you back, you don’t get chosen to be a part of a team or group you interviewed for or the people you thought were your squad let you down. Please please please do not let those bad experiences keep you from your life.
When you fall off the horse, get back on and keep riding. There will always be things in life that hurt, and people will always let you down, but there are so many more people and experiences just waiting for you.
Your Prince Charming and friend group are out there and they may not know it yet, but they need you. Job opportunities, teams, internships, volunteer positions are at your fingertips just waiting for your spunk, charm, kindness, and unique character. Take the experiences you have had to make new ones.
Learn from the past so when you move forward your new experiences can be even more exciting and thrilling. The world is at your fingertips, go out and grab it.
