Dear College Students,
Bear with me as I try to explain something that the general public does not try to explain.
I have always thought about the different aspects that go into what truly makes an individual an accurate reflection of who they are, but have never put my thoughts on paper. College provides people with all of the tools needed to express themselves. There is challenge, there is change, and there is growth. At ASU, due to the sheer size of this school, conquering the process is more important than ever in order to find out who you are.
However more and more, I see friends compromising who they are or becoming someone who they are not. Most of this stems from their involvement in different things, but ultimately, it is a result of an individual trying to fit in. Why change who you are to become someone you were not meant to be? I don't get it. At the end of the day, you're your own person, and your individuality is far more important than your involvement than any organization or group on campus.
Involvement is great. It is essential to breaking through and finding yourself in college. Your identity should not be wrapped up in something that you are a part of though. If you are involved in Greek Life, your sorority or fraternity should not be how you identify yourself. Same goes for clubs on campus. You are much larger than an organization you are affiliated with. I am not saying that you can't have pride or find worth in those things, but you should not put yourself on a pedestal because of your involvement.
Being exclusive or treating others with contempt based off their interests or differing involvement is ridiculous. You probably have never taken the time to get to know him/her on a personal level. Have you actually thought about who they are, or have you judged them based off external circumstances? Increasingly, I see individuals losing themselves to find worth amongst their peers. It is not worth it to lose yourself in the process of finding fulfillment.
Seek what makes you unique, and don't let externalities define you. Everyone out there has something about them that distinguishes them as an individual. Showcase that for all to see.
Or maybe I am wrong, just thought I would chip in my two cents.
Stay classy,
Payne Ruhlman
