OPINION: You don’t have to endure your USF spring semester alone
The only joy I feel these days is knowing I am one more assignment closer to the end of the semester.
The spring semester brings a list of new assignments, projects, essays and, of course, exams.
I’ve found that with the ongoing to-do list, the only light in my life is the faint glow of my computer screen met with my meal of melted down iced coffee.
With these far from ideal circumstances, it’s easy to hole myself in my room and become accustomed to this lifestyle of isolation.
Related: USF students, try saying “Yes” more
I realized I need to remove myself from these circumstances I’ve grown to be so comfortable in. If I were to keep resorting to self-isolation, I doubt I would have the willpower to finish the semester.
I had to step out of my comfort zone.
I found the best way to do so was to start by widening my social circle. Because honestly, it consisted of my cat and childhood best friend.
And if they were busy, I was back doing school work and essentially fueling my toxic relationship with Canvas.
I found out making friends on campus was as easy as going to USF events. BullsConnect offers an endless list of free events for registered students.
On a whim, I went to an event held by the Crochet Club after I saw it on BullsConnect, and I ended up making a friend. I started chatting with the girl who sat right next to me, and we even scheduled more hangouts afterward.
Related: USF welcomes Dylan Sprouse to talk about early career, future projects: “Just try it”
By making new friends, I was given a new social outlet. It was also really nice to find other students to connect with, considering they could relate to my spring semester struggles.
These friendships could lead to party invites, but it’s possible you may not know everyone there.
While this may be scary, I find it makes the experience better since it forces you to make new friends.
Social gatherings are not the only way to make friends. Playing sports or attending games are other ways to step outside of your comfort zone.
It can be as simple as inviting a group of classmates you know to a park, like Lettuce Lake Park or USF Riverfront Park, to play frisbee.
Related: OPINION: Reminder for USF students, your grades don’t define you
You don’t have to be on track for the NBA to be considered eligible to play basketball.
If you enjoy watching sports rather than playing them, USF is home to a number of great sports events to watch.
I actually became closer with a classmate by simply attending a Taylor Swift-themed women’s basketball game last semester.
Or if you are someone who enjoys planned events, I’ve made some amazing fitness friends attending the Recreation & Wellness group fitness events.
By separating yourself from school and taking the time to be social, you get the chance to recharge. This way, you can tackle future assignments with a new energy you may not have had before.
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