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Group project
When I first walked down the dormitory hallway, I thought of a line from Dr. Seuss: “Oh, and the people you'll meet...” Your peers are with whom you will interact every day. This is not limited to your roommates.
As a university student, you will have to deal with your peers when you contribute to class, participate in organizations and argue that you already did your half of the project. The best way to deal with your worries of loneliness at school is to bring a positive, open-minded, clear-headed attitude with you.
Yes yes, I know what you're thinking. You're probably saying, "I've heard this ‘attitude’ stuff before!" There is a reason for that: What you bring to your environment is at least what you'll get out of your environment. It doesn’t matter if you're going to a conservative school or to a school with the population of a small city. It’s your attitude that counts.
Open-mindedness for me was realizing that everybody is different. Now, I give others the chance to present themselves. I allow them the floor instead of merely dismissing their case out of arrogance or pride.
Some people will just berate you. But you shouldn’t assume that all people are like that. Most of the people I've met are willing to present their cases maturely and reasonably. That, I believe, is being open-minded. Giving others a chance.
Through this mentality, you'll make connections with people—the people you'll be partying and playing bridge with later. The other key is in keeping a positive attitude. We can all see that the world isn't the most friendly, peaceful or safe place. But we should realize that there is still good in the world, from the work of local charities to the advice you receive from a friend.
Walk with a smile and your head up high. Say hello. Exude goodness, despite the stresses that life introduces. That's the low-down on working with your peers in college and forming lasting and meaningful relationships. It doesn't hurt to try!
Mike Maturo is a freshman at the University of Southern California. Article provided by 
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