I am not very good with words and people and interacting; I am a massive introvert. I was never a part of anything in high school, either clubs or sports, and I didn't understand the significance of doing them either. I knew once I entered university, I would have to do something, be a part of something- which is why my first year I challenged myself to join a club, any club, and that is how I am a part of Stressbusters today. Giving free back rubs to people may not seem like a big deal, but for me it was a big step in understanding how to communicate with others in many ways and engage in campus activities. It has shown me the benefits of putting myself out there, even if it is only something small, and shown me that I actually can be dedicated to something.
I am so, so quiet most of the time, and because I challenged myself to overcome some of that social anxiety, I have become more confident in myself. This is not to say if you have (social) anxiety that joining a club where you're constantly talking to and touching people will help, or by joining any club will automatically help, but for me it did at least a little. Set little goals for yourself, and if you still don't, it's fine- you're fine.
That got a little off track, but my point remains- I challenged myself to engage and interact, and I did it, and continue to.
I can easily relate to your challenge. I transferred from CCC to NAU and I went from small classrooms where everyone talked and knew each other to huge auditoriums and not knowing a soul. I started NAU with the attitude that, "I'm here to do good in my classes and graduate and that's it." Making friends or getting involved on campus were not my priority. I too challenged myself to get involved in at least one club or organization on campus and did! Ever since I've never looked back. I've met people who have faced similar obstacles and who share same interests as me. Getting involved also helped me meet my two mentors, without them I would not have anyone to turn to for advice or just to listen.
ReplyDeleteI too am quiet sometimes but was involved in clubs through out high school. Maybe because I grew up in a small town and I knew a lot of people so joining clubs was usually with friends. I transferred here from UofA and was in the premed club for a semester, loved it. Now being here at NAU I have yet to join clubs but will consider doing some next year.
ReplyDeleteI get the the extreme introvert and social anxiety thing. I think its really cool how you talked about that and how you overcame that. I think using small goals for the larger one is really good to talk about with your mentee.
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