Spring semesters are always exciting. For some students, it is their last semester at Shippensburg, while others feel a renewed confidence after completing the previous fall semester. This confidence is not unearned as many of us dealt with numerous hardships stemming from the pandemic.

Despite the growing concerns about the Omicron variant of COVID-19, we need to remember that none of us are in this alone. We are all surrounded by fellow dedicated students who share a drive to succeed and can be there if we need help. Whether it is study groups or asking for notes, there is always someone available to help.

There are also resources like the tutoring center and professors to help you when you are having a rough time in the class. I know these things seem obvious, but as I enter my senior year, I still see those who do not utilize these options failing and thinking there was nothing they could do. Many people who move to campus have trouble asking for help and tend to feel isolated without a support system. All it takes is a little reaching out, and I know you will find the people and help you need.

Personally, student organizations like The Slate helped me to branch out and find a solid support system here at Shippensburg. There is just something amazing about working with a group of people for a common goal that fills me with a sense of determination. It’s not just The Slate either; there are so many organizations on campus and I encourage everyone to take part in at least one of these groups.

Isolation can be catastrophic for even the most seasoned students, and we must maintain some kind of grounding in these troubling times. Many of these campus groups and facilities offer online help for those who are uncomfortable with face-to-face help, so help is offered on every level.

I believe that community is important to campus life, and it can make or break a student’s time here. Reach out to people. By welcoming new people we strengthen our community.

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