When I began my freshman year of college, I suddenly realized how daunting it was to put myself out there. As a person who has always been content in the background, I felt that college was the perfect time to be open to new opportunities and meet more people. But when the semester began, work set in, and the strain of getting used to a new life took its toll.
I was nervous to even go up to the thousands of booths advertising new clubs and had trouble connecting with people as I realized people don't talk in class like they used to in high school. In a school with over 30,000 people, I felt overwhelmed with how to make solid friends while keeping with my studies.
Luckily, I figured out that many other freshmen were struggling like me and felt lost in such a big environment. With each semester, my fears and anxieties have gotten progressively better.
As a second semester sophomore, I took it upon myself to join a multitude of clubs despite my already busy schedule. With a school like mine, I began to realize that so many opportunities were about to be wasted if I didn't decide now to put myself out there.
I can honestly say it's been one of the best decisions I've made. It's proven that it is important to be a part of your campus, to experience the chance of being something bigger, to meet a variety of individuals and to try things you would've never tried before. When people say, "It's college, and you'll never get a chance like this again," they are right. The feeling of wasting away your time by just going to class and having regrets of not at least trying is very real.
No matter your fears, joining at least one organization can be beneficial in so many ways. Some of your best friends you'll meet at these clubs, it can be a great outreach for the community and to broadcast your school's name, a nice escape away from the stress of class and, not to mention, great to put on that shiny resume.
And don't worry about what people may think of you. They'll want you to join their club and your other friends will be of as much support as they can. Sometimes, the things you never thought you would fit in with turn out to be perfect for you.
There's no such thing as too many friends or too many experiences in college. Granted, you can't join everything, but becoming part of a club that really piques your interest will make your time in college all the more enjoyable. And even if you're still too nervous to join a club, there are always tons of campus events and activities going on throughout the whole year.
College is the only time in your life where you'll be surrounded and living with thousands of other people your age. No matter how scared you may be, take advantage of it. If that means experiencing some crazy parties or joining new clubs, go and put yourself out there. The decision will be worth it in the long run.
