If you asked me to describe my first Quad Day in one word, I would say “crowded.” However, I was still looking forward to the opportunity it presented, with hundreds of registered student organizations conveniently assembled in one location for me to gather information about and possibly join.

Unfortunately, it appeared that hundreds of other students had the same idea.

The Quad was beyond crowded, with people swarming around booths and recruiters seeking out new members.

The weather was hot and humid and it was difficult to navigate confusing pathways when I wasn’t very familiar with campus to begin with. I struggled to read maps, wondering how I’d avoid getting lost amidst all the confusion.

I remember wishing I’d brought a bag to carry all the flyers, pens and freebies that were being handed out and shied away from the daunting prospect of approaching crowded tables to make my voice heard, instead choosing to visit less busy booths.

I also marveled at fellow Illini in a capella, theater and dance groups showcasing their talent with live performances.

But now, as I begin my sophomore year, I look back and see the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone, interacting with more people and participating in more organizations.

It helps you become a more well-rounded individual while allowing you to invest in your college career with activities other than studying and taking classes.

When you come out to Quad Day — and whether you are a freshman or a senior who has previously had reservations about participating in events and organizations — make an effort to sign up for what interests you, and don’t hold back because of uncertainty.

When you fully engage in the campus community, it will pay off by providing you with more opportunities and helping you grow as a person.

All in all, Quad Day last year was a unique experience for me, and in retrospect, I feel it was representative of my entire freshman year.

The multitude of choices available when it came to choosing organizations that I wanted to be a part of is, in a sense, similar to all of the majors the University has to offer.

There is an abundance of both academic and extracurricular activities, almost to the point that it’s overwhelming.

I came in undeclared and felt indecisive about both my major and the organizations I wanted to join.

But it was this indecisiveness that allowed me to explore my options thoroughly before choosing the right major.

Therefore, don’t see uncertainty as a hindrance.

If you don’t know what major or interests you want to pursue, see it as a chance to take classes in different subjects to learn what you like and don’t like.

The large crowds of people attending Quad Day are a sample group of the diverse and thriving student body I came to know and appreciate during my first year.

The opportunity to meet new people, whether it’s in a jam-packed lecture hall or social event, is ever-present at the University.

No matter who you are and what your background is, you will find people who share your interests, but also people whom you might not have much in common with, but who will teach you so much.

Your friendships on this campus will become an invaluable asset to you, and a major part of your college experience.

The bottom line is that Quad Day — and college — will be exactly what you make of it; you can choose to stand on the sidelines and observe from afar, or become involved in the array of opportunities the University has to offer.

Aminah is a sophomore in LAS.

Tweet: Quad Day is an opportunity to set the tone for freshman year, says Staff Writer Aminah Koshul

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