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Our Safe Haven: Campus Involvement for Transfer or First Year Students

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at USF chapter.

As a transfer student and coming from a background of involvement on campus, I understand how important it is not only to make strong connections, but meaningful connections, as well. We are in our first weeks of school, and starting a new semester, so it is time to share a few alternatives to make this community your safe heaven, and to see what is out there accessible for you!

Photo courtesy of Project Management Advisors, Inc.

As a freshman starting on a college campus, I felt very overwhelmed with the amount of information I received. After being a student leader, being a part of the volunteer team, as well as participating in different events offered on campus, I felt part of the community. When I transferred to USF, I realized that there are two thought lines we can possibly follow: First, a huge school like USF could make us feel intimidated and overwhelmed and second, deep inside we are aware that the amount of opportunities to get involved, meet new people, and create those special affiliations can double. It is always time to embrace and apply the second thought into our lives.

Photo courtesy of USF Center For Student Involvement  

There are several ways to put yourself out there, and if you are an introvert, there are also many ways that you would enjoy to get involved with the Bulls community:

  • Attending different clubs and organization meetings,
  • Taking advantage of introduction time in your class, and stepping out of your comfort zone
  • Stopping by at the events going on around campus (The Bulls Market happens every Wednesday!)
  • Checking the USF website for upcoming programs, canvas and your USF email, as well as just visiting some of the offices around campus for involvement opportunities (Orientation, New Connections, Career Center, Student Government, etc.)

Photo courtesy of Lancaster City Council 

These are some of the many diverse approaches to start making our school our home, and finding your people. Let’s make this time the best it can be, and develop the special connections we are here to create.

 

Hi! My name is Gabriela and I am studying Communication at USF. Writing has been a self-discover journey and a way to express my ideas to the world. As a student passionate about learning, music, dance, theater, diversity and helping others, there is many things I would like to share with you!
Interests include but are not limited to: art, history, astrology, skin care, the french, politics (yikes), frank ocean, controversy and being extremely overdramatic.