Start getting involved, your future is at stake

In our everyday experiences, we get what we give.  As an interacting society, we gain much when we collaborate and suffer when we don’t. The world has much to offer, and the benefits we stand to gain are increased when our community is fully functioning.

Here at CSC, we have a small campus and community of students and staff. Some people may view our size as a bad thing; however, it is up to us as students to realize what small campus life really has to offer.  We form tight communities through dorm living, sports teams, and clubs.  When such community bonds form, the quality of life is raised for all involved.  The small size of CSC enables us to befriend those who have similar interests as us, while still knowing most people on campus.

I think sometimes we all take for granted what is offered to us through student activities, clubs, and programs.  Student Senate enables students to make decisions and complete projects.  The key of Student Senate is representation, which might be lacking due to lack of diversity in residence halls represented, as well as courses of study.  Our current Senate is functioning and knowledgeable, however I think more competition and involvement would heighten the benefits that students ultimately gain.  Campus Activities Board is also a gateway to power for students.

Both of these organizations require weekly attendance at meetings, which I realize can get monotonous and boring sometimes.  It’s only through these commitments that the students have power at their fingertips and if no one chooses to use this power, it’ll be lost or reassigned.  Get involved in the meetings, and you’ll be surprised what different dimensions will be exposed to your clubs or education.

Something I’ve learned since becoming more involved in campus activities is that without the support of our community, things would not be as successful as they otherwise are.  By attending a wind symphony concert, wrestling meet, or even an RLA program we all benefit from a strong sense of community.  Everyone has activities that they are involved in, and I know when participation is low it can dampen the feeling of accomplishment.

The size and the scope of what is offered at CSC can make working towards our goals a little more difficult at times, but in such a situation success is all the more fulfilling in the end.  I myself have battled to bring the Rugby program back into the scope of campus life.  When clubs overcome obstacles and adversity they fight for something larger than a successful year.

Keeping the tradition of our clubs at CSC can be both easy and difficult depending on club size and involvement.  When clubs survive the test of time, students at CSC will only benefit as a product of the hard work of club leaders and members.

Benefits are gained when you least expect it, and involving yourself in things with guaranteed success only limits what you can achieve.  It’s easy to criticize things from afar, but you can only inspire change when you become involved.

I challenge the students of CSC to get out there, become more involved, and see just what they can do for our community.