Don’t stay in your room!
There are always so many different things going on at your university. Whether it be awesome student events, or a dance, or just sitting in the coffee shop and chatting with some friends, there’s always something to be doing. Get out there! Explore! Talk to people! The people you meet here and the friendships you make will shape your growth mentally, spiritually, and, yes, even physically. Don’t be afraid to join in the community and get to know those around you.
Don’t let stress take over your life!
While school work is very important and education is truly the reason you’re here, don’t let the work overwhelm you! Take time for yourself and your friends. The best memories that I have from my time at SWU are those unplanned, spontaneous, and ridiculous adventures that I took with my friends. Whether it be hiking, trying new restaurants, or going to see a movie, let yourself have FUN! Take advantage of these four years because, soon enough, they’ll be gone and you won’t get them back.
Always be inviting and accepting!
When I lived in West Hall, my roommates and I would always keep our door open during the day. This lets people know that they were welcome to come in and chat with us! The community that was built and the incredible, impromptu spiritual conversations we had can’t even be explained. Be open to meeting new people and discovering things about them you might have never known.
Don’t kill your suitemates or hallmates.
Trust me, there are moments when you want to go next door and scream at the guy or girl blasting music at 4 a.m. But, try to stay positive and just talk to him/her about it. The nicer you are, the more they will try to listen and understand the situation! If a conversation doesn’t work, don’t be afraid to tell your RA (resident assistant) or RD (resident director) and ask them for help.
Get to know your roommate.
Living with someone is very challenging at times! You have to develop a sense of trust and respect for one another. You have to realize that they are human, they will mess up, and they will drive you crazy every now and then. But, get to know them, love them for who they are, and show them that you care! Trust me, my roommate is the best friend I never knew I needed and the person I run to when anything happens in my life. They walk with you through your time at SWU and can change your life if you’ll let them. Grow with them and let them into your life. You never know what may happen!
Your RA and RD are not there to harass you.
While the rules may seem scary and the pressure unreal, don’t let the RA’s and RD’s freak you out! They are there for YOU and YOUR betterment. Don’t be afraid to speak to them and maybe even hang out. Thank them for being there for your safety and let them know you appreciate them; they are people just like you.
Well, there you have it. These are just some of the many things I have learned while living on campus, but I think they’re some of the most important! My last tip for you is to just soak in every single moment and cherish every memory. Life is too short to complain, worry and stress about things that won’t be important five years from now. Enjoy the time that you have with friends, professors, and leaders around you! Remember that you are here for a reason! Find that reason and run after it with all you’ve got (while enjoying some chocolate chip pizza from the Caf every once in a while!).
