Students should try meeting new people
Growing up, we’re constantly told not to talk to strangers.
I believe, at this age, students should do the opposite. Some of the most important interactions and strongest friendships have resulted from picking up a conversation with a complete stranger.
For some, this may seem daunting not only because of “stranger danger,” but because it forces us to leave our comfort zones. However, putting yourself out there can have some amazing results.
People never know the story of the person sitting next to them until they ask. So many preconceived ideas we develop about others are purely based on their superficial appearances. The clothing they wear, the cars they drive and the way they greet people with a handshake can all lead to misplaced stereotypes.
Actually sitting down with someone and asking them about how his or her day is going can lead to a better understanding of the complexity of each and every person.
Moving forward, learning the stories of others can reveal the story of one’s self.
Describing one’s self to another person can help them discover more about themselves. Verbalizing one’s own traits helps to clarify what those traits are, even to the individual.
In a unique way, getting to know someone else is way to get in touch with one’s own individuality.
One of my most cherished and challenging friendships was formed at Café Brulé. A simple question from a stranger about what I was working on led to a two-hour conversation covering topics ranging from our respective childhoods to the political culture of the United States following World War II.
Who did I meet? A retired farmer and Vermillion native who drove a big red pick-up and whose mother happened to have been in the same sorority as me. Our friendship has continued since that conversation, and I’m grateful for its humble though odd beginnings.
Making a connection with someone would’ve remained a stranger can have a big impact. Whether it’s simply making someone smile or experiencing a new view on life, talking to a stranger can have amazing results.
USD provides the perfect opportunity to do this – Vermillion encapsulates what a small-town Midwestern college is.
To truly take advantage of what this community has to offer, reach out to others.
Correction: This column incorrectly identified the retired farmer mentioned. The Volante regrets the error.
