mitchellk@lopers.unk.edu
I came to college excited to branch out, make new friends and get involved in many activities. Instead, I eat alone in my room, stress about having to mingle with hundreds of strangers and wonder if college will get better.
I have to remind myself of this often that many others are in the same situation. It’s been a crazy year, so it’s not a surprise that many students are having difficulties getting connected. Here are some ways students can stay connected with others during these uncertain times.
Remember that we are in the same boat. Staying connected during a pandemic is difficult! There are plenty of people who are feeling alone or isolated.
Chat with friends from home. While having class over Zoom may not be ideal, students can use the app to stay connected to friends and family from home.
Make a list of interests. In order to figure out what clubs, activities, or organizations are interesting, make a list of hobbies and interests.
Scroll through UNK’s activity calendar. It has a list of activities planned on campus and details about the event. Students can find the calendar on the UNK website.
Check out UNK’s list of organizations. There are over 150 campus organizations and clubs. Visit https://unk.presence.io/ for the complete list of organizations.
Follow UNK organizations’ social media accounts. The Antelope isn’t the only source of news on campus. Other groups advertise events you can participate in.
See what is happening around town. There are plenty of activities to do around Kearney that are fun and inexpensive. Students can invite friends or even people they’ve just met.
Reach out to people on campus. As an introvert with social anxiety, I know taking the first step can be scary. Other people are looking for connection, and the best way to start is by actively seeking people out.
Keep mental health in mind. It is a really dark time for many of us, and the time period has made it more difficult to get to know people. If the distancing becomes couraging, UNK counseling services is available for students talk to professionals.
Hang in there. This pandemic sucks! My adjustment to college has not been easy, and I often find myself feeling discouraged. Keep reaching out to others and reaching outside of your comfort zone. We can do this, Lopers!
