Written by: Jhosuet “Josh” Esten
Going to college for me was one of the most difficult experiences I ever had to go through. I was in an atmosphere that I was not familiar with; I had no idea what I was doing most of the time, and I didn’t have many friends.
There were times when I felt alone, when I knew I was about to fail a test, and moments when I was so sleep deprived that I would fall asleep standing up.
College was not looking the way I had imagined it to be, but all of that changed when I decided to get out of my comfort zone. I began to meet new people, experience new things and create memories that I will cherish forever.
For many of you, your first experience at Southern looks very different than what it was like for me. Things like masking have become part of our daily routine, and making friends seems impossible because of the fear of COVID-19, plus the added feeling that you don’t know who you’re talking to because of the mask. Even so, I want to challenge you to get out of your comfort zone and go! Go make new friends. Go try new things. Go jump off that cliff (into water). Go talk to that girl or guy you like; just don’t let the opportunity pass you by. If this pandemic has taught me anything, it’s that life is too short to wait for things to happen. We need to go out and shape our reality.
The American author, William Nolan, once said, “It’s better to regret what you did than regret what you didn’t do.” Don’t be afraid of what could happen, but rather be afraid of the regret for what didn’t.
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV)
I want to let you know that your Student Association team is here to make sure your experience at Southern is the best possible. Whether it’s through our weekly events, the new projects we have going on around campus or by being people you can come talk to, we are here for you. So, if you ever do want to talk, or if you’d like to let us know how we can improve our campus, come see us on the third floor of the student center. We are here for you and because of you; don’t be shy. Just go. We are praying for you.
Your friend, Josh.