After a sun and fun-filled Spring Break, most students dread returning to their university campus. Post-break depression is common and understandable. The mundane lull of student life is hardly something to look forward to.
Whether we spent the break at home with friends or discovering a new city, how and where our time was spent was completely in our control.
Returning to class means giving up that control, leaving many students feeling powerless.
This powerlessness combined with the fact that Kingsville does not have the typical facets of a college town can cause many Texas A&M University – Kingsville (TAMUK) students to be dissatisfied with where they are.
It is common at TAMUK to hear students complain about the small city we inhabit and all that it lacks, especially in the weeks following a holiday such as Spring Break.
It is easy to become disillusioned yourself listening to fellow students describe how the grass must be greener somewhere else.
Contrary to popular belief, it is possible to be happy living in a simple place such as Kingsville.
When I moved to Kingsville three years ago, I had a difficult time adjusting to the slowness of the city. At the time, Kingsville did not appear to have many redeemable qualities.
I quickly developed a negative view of my new location. It was extremely hot, and there was no Target in proximity.
Fast forward to present day, and I have become wholly content with living in Kingsville. It took a little time, but I soon learned to appreciate the simpler things in my life. This path to appreciation did not begin until I made an active effort to be present and engaged with my surroundings.
For me, being present and engaged meant finding every aspect of Kingsville that could potentially bring me joy, no matter how small that aspect initially seemed.
I rescued a dog in the Wal-Mart parking lot. I began trying every restaurant in town, and frequented the ones that I loved. I joined student organizations on campus. I created a beautiful space that was unique to me by decorating my dorm room. I walked around campus during the afternoon. I took weekend trips to Corpus Christi. I rescued another dog from the city’s shelter. I bought myself flowers from HEB. I went dancing at the Ranch and Country Lua. I made friends from all different circles. I did my homework at Starbucks, instead of alone in my room. I fell in love with a guy. I tried to make my life beautiful in any way that I could.
I understand that the things I did to make a home out of Kingsville would not work for everyone, but I do believe that having a present and engaged attitude is the only way for anyone to reach true contentment.
Therefore, do not be disappointed about returning to your simple life in Kingsville after the awesome Spring Break you just experienced.
Fear not, for there is joy and fulfillment to be found here if you are willingly to go out and actively seek it.
Bloom where you are planted.
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