In today’s issue of the Daily Eastern News, we wrote about two events that happened that might not seem similar at first, but serve similar purposes- the minority reception happening on Tuesday.

Events like these help bring people togeth- er, and help students to get more involved on cam- pus. Through the minority staff, faculty and student reception, students can get to know what multicul- tural organizations are right for them, and find peo- ple they can come to know as familiar faces on cam- pus.

At the solar eclipse-viewing party, students, facul- ty, staff and community members were able to bond over seeing a rare event, as the moon crossed over the sun for the first time in years and have fun.

Both are great examples of some of the things offered on campus that help students stay entertained and allow them to meet new people. While you are here to get good grades, college will be awfully boring if you just sit in your dorm after going to class.

In many stories the Daily Eastern News has published over the years about getting involved, the one regret people often have is that they did not do it ear- lier.

Do not be one of those people with regrets. If you are a new student, find your niche early. And even if you are a senior, it is still possible to make a new start this year and try to find something you will like to do. Asanewyearstarts,weallstartonablankslate.

While it is better to get involved early, as the saying goes, better late than never.

If you are afraid to walk into that registered student organization meeting or go to that campus

event, just remember, everyone who is involved with anything at this university was once in your shoes, and remembers feeling just as afraid.

One second of nervousness or awkwardness can turn into years of friendship and memories that are totally worth going outside of your comfort zone for.

Even if you do not have a friend readily avail- able to go with you, even trying to go alone to these events or activities can be beneficial. Maybe there will be someone else alone you can make friends with, or you will find that you like having time to yourself.

Whatever reasons or excuses you come up with, do not let these be what is holding you back or making your university life boring.

The News staff can be reached at 581-2812 or [email protected]