I’m sure that as a freshman, you may feel overwhelmed by the propensity of things to do at Colorado Mesa University. Or worse yet, you don’t recognize the many opportunities our campus has to offer. If either of these applies to you, I hope to help by listing five key tips to making the most of the many events, clubs and more available through CMU.

If you’re up to it, focus on your major

When you’re looking at things to do, one rule of thumb is to join clubs that support and emphasize the degree you’re working towards. This could be the Physics club, the Chemistry club, the Political Science club or others. Being a member of organizations or participating in seminars that stress your major allows you to network with like-minded students and create a support group.

Participate in side hobbies/interests

Perhaps you need a break from your area of study. One of the best ways to become involved on campus is to join groups and activities that allow you pursue your hobbies. Whether it be writing, photography, frisbee, political science, etc. There is something for everyone here at CMU. And what if your passion (ahem! Dungeons and Dragons) has no club founded? Create your own.

Don’t do too much

This cannot be stressed enough. If you want to be able to succeed in college, over commitment can be a barrier to success. When you pack too much into your schedule, where you have almost zero free time leftover, you can not only become overwhelmed but also become unhappy. Doing too much can lead to extreme stress, which can cause you to fail classes or make bad or harmful decisions. Do just enough that you can work, do school, and have fun with ease. Enjoy your time in college. It shouldn’t be torture.

Get involved with organizations about others

So what you may have attended a Gay-Straight Alliance meeting and not identified as LGBTQ+? Yeah sure, you may not be Latino, a female or more. What does it matter? A less practiced, but just as vital way to get involved on campus is joining diversity organizations that you may not identify with. Being a member of such groups can give you empathy and give you a new perspective on life.

Do what you love

Have fun! Don’t do something just because everyone else is doing it or because it has to do with your major. Getting involved with groups that aid you in your major is important, but even more important is enjoying your life and loving what you do.