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Coming to college was intimidating for me. I had attended small religious schools where I knew everyone and their parents, so moving to Mizzou was a bit of a culture shock. During my first semester, I struggled to find my place in such a large community. However, now as a junior, I truly feel that Mizzou is my home. I have loved the time I’ve spent here, and the friendships and experiences I’ve had. Below are some of the ways I went from feeling overwhelmed by a big school to making it feel like a small, tight-knit community.
Major
One of the first ways I began to find my place at Mizzou was by immersing myself in my major. Your major is a great starting point for meeting people, and I highly recommend joining clubs or activities related to your field. I’ve recently started working for The Missourian on the courts beat, and I’m really enjoying it. Since I plan to pursue a law degree after school, it’s been a great opportunity to learn more about the court system.
Minor
One of my favorite parts of college has been my art history minor. This minor has allowed me to explore and deepen my knowledge of the arts. I’m also part of the Art History Club at Mizzou, where I enjoy monthly discussions and meetings with fellow students who share similar interests.
Job
Another aspect of my college life that I’ve truly enjoyed is working at the MU Career Center. The experiences I’ve gained from this job have been invaluable, and it has also allowed me to meet new people, both within and outside my major.
Service
I’ve become involved with Tiger Pantry Food Kitchen, where I volunteer for three hours a week to help serve food and organize pantry resources. This has been an incredibly rewarding experience, and it’s a great way to give back to the community. I’ve also made new friends through volunteering.
Athletic Events
Attending Mizzou athletic events, such as basketball and football games, has been a fun way to stay engaged with the Mizzou community. I had the pleasure of attending every home football game this year, as well as the one in Alabama (though that one wasn’t as enjoyable). I’ve also gone to several basketball games, and the atmosphere has been amazing. Go Tigers!
In conclusion, my time at Mizzou has transformed from a period of uncertainty into one of belonging. Through getting involved in various aspects of campus life, I have found my place and created meaningful connections. It’s amazing how a big school can feel like home with the right experiences and relationships.
By Sydney Waldron