Ladies and gents, most of you are freshmen, but some may be new comers to the so called “hashtag dorm life.” I can’t tell you what your dorm life is because well it’s not mine to make; it’s yours. Back when I was a freshman at McNeese State University, right from the bat, I was making friends throughout my suite and my hallway, floor, then dorm. I have what you call a “go-getter” or out-going personality. I was born into one of the greatest personalities you can have. At first, my roommates were shy towards me and each other. It drove me crazy for a few days, so me being me, I grabbed the biggest maul and broke the ice. Soon enough, my roommates knew each other and talked more. After that I went door to door, knocking and waiting, then introducing myself. Some didn’t answer, some answered, some even invited me in. Then it kept getting better and better. Still, to this day, my freshmen year in the dorms was the best of the four (yes, four) years in the dorm.
Now I know you guys and gals reading this are probably like, “This dude is nuts,” and you are probably right. But let me grab your attention with this, the friends you make in your dorm will shape the rest of your college career. Don’t believe me? That’s cool, but listen to this. If you hang out with your roommates on campus or off campus, then they either already know someone there or will make friends easily. This will spread if you allow it. My classmates and old friends that were already there (see what I just said) knew other people that I soon started to hang out with. They later became my best friends that I have spent most of my college career with. Also find some upperclassmen that will mentor you and help you out. They can be a life saver and help you make good scheduling decisions with the best teachers and classes. Look, of all this going on and on, you will make friends and the more you make, the more opportunities you will make.
This is your time. Always keep your top priority school and getting homework done. I have failed over and over again until I finally succeeded. Granted sometimes you don’t always come out on top. But remember to have fun too. College is a fun time especially during football season. I personally can’t wait, and I'm hyped already.
Back on topic, dorm life is great. Going in, my mission was to rush a fraternity and that’s perfectly okay. Fraternities and sororities are excellent ways to make friends, gain a bigger family, get involved into the community and school and the list goes on. I’m going to tell you what my dad told me, “At least get one good year of living in the dorms.” Unfortunately, I spent four years in mine and I never got into a fraternity unlike my dad that did. Aside from that fact, I am still friends with many people in several fraternities.
Amidst all of these, do not be afraid to make friends. When you are in the cafeteria, go sit with some random person and talk with them. That’s how a good portion of my friends exist today. Good luck with your first semester of college and enjoy your dorm life.
