New Season, New Hobby

April is just around the corner, and things are looking up. The weather’s definitely in our favor, the birds are singing some tune we don’t know the lyrics to, and before you know it, people will be taking naps in the Quad again. New seasons bring new interests. As someone who enjoys discovering new passions, I’ve compiled a short list of activities to consider exploring if you’re willing to try something new (or just happen to be bored and would rather not do tonight’s reading).

1. Take on Photography. I have to say this is one of my favorite things to do in my free time. There’s something about focusing on an object and trying to capture it in a swift moment that intrigues me so much. There’s such power and joy that comes from a moment of your life documented in front of you. Now, you don’t have to own a DSLR camera to enjoy photography; A point-and-shoot digital camera will suffice. Start off with a few nature shots using your phone, then when you get the hang of it, move onto street photography. Explore your campus for an afternoon. Anything you find even remotely interesting, take a picture. Have a photo shoot with your friends and dress up (these are always fun). It’s a great way to appreciate the small things.

2. Start a Blog. Blogging is neat because there’s so much you can do with it. The blog can be anything–Meaningful advice, daily recollections, or even a compilation of stunning photos. There are several sites that offer a free web address. Start a few posts and see how you like it. Make sure to update it! Try:

wordpress.com

tumblr.com

or

blogspot.com

3. Discover an Author that Speaks to You. There are times when I pick up a text and become so infatuated with the material presented on the page that it’s like the author is speaking directly to me. It immediately drags me into a world I’m not ashamed to be apart of. There’s a relationship between the writer and the reader, and just like human relationships, some connect more than others. When you come across an author that you identify with search for other works by them. Growing intimate with a storyline can be frustrating and exciting at the same time. That’s what makes literature so fascinating.

4. Poetry Writing. I realize you may be slightly apprehensive to the idea, but just try it. Yes, the poetry unit in high school might have been extremely miserable and pointless, but this is different because you’re coming up with the product, and that sounds down right exciting to me. Look up some contemporary poets, slam poetry pieces, or even spoken word performances online. There are many different ways to write poetry, not necessarily the formats associated with academics. Be free with your own thoughts and let your words come naturally. Not everything has to rhyme. It doesn’t have to be cheesy, it could make you think and reflect on your thoughts. That’s part of the beauty in it.

5. Weekly Adventures. This doesn’t have to be anything huge or require a lot of planning; just one planned day a week for you and your friends to de-stress and have fun. Hit up a thrift store or visit animals at your local zoo/shelter. There may be a low-budget indie film playing at a local theatre, or a local art show held every week. If you have a car with some extra bucks, explore your college town some. Maybe hit up a new restaurant in the next town over and check out the different neighborhoods. The more you become familiar with your college town off-campus, the more comfortable and at home you may feel.