Tips from Tina – Am I really having the “full social experience” if I go to a community college?

By Jessica Sierocki, photo editor.

In all honesty, you’re not going to have the typical college experience other students are going to have when they live on campus at school. Community college has its advantages but  unfortunately having a typical “college social life” is not one of them.

Because Delta is a commuter college, students don’t get the perk of living in a dorm room, which is one of the easiest ways to make friends in college. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t have a great social life. Maybe instead of questioning if you ARE having the “full social experience,” you should be asking HOW you can.

I have a lot of friends who go to universities all over Michigan, but the problem is that I have to drive hours to spend time with them. With my work and school schedules, that can get a little inconvenient. So, instead of focusing all my energy on going to universities, I try to create my own fun in my home town.

If you can’t travel for a weekend of fun like me, create one yourself. Having a social life can be more than just partying (responsibly) all weekend. It could mean something as small as getting a group of people to go to the movies or having a fun-filled weekend up north. Meeting up with friends or going places to meet new people is a great way to unwind and have some fun during a busy school week.

You can even have a social life on campus. There are hundreds of students walking the halls of Delta everyday. Chances are you know at least a few friendly faces from previous classes, your old schools, or even your work. Have a conversation with someone, make new friends and go places with them. College is all about branching out and having new experiences. It may seem scary to approach people at first, but they won’t bite. Hopefully.

Going to a community college doesn’t mean you’re a hermit, it’s just a school that fits your budget. Don’t be afraid to want a social life. Be like any college student and try to create friendships and experiences that will last a lifetime.