Nearly two weeks have passed since the ball dropped in Times Square, and you may still be left wondering where the past year has gone.
As you begin to look forward to the future, you have undoubtedly considered making a new start in some aspect of your life. Perhaps you've already thought about getting in shape, tightening your budget or studying harder. If so, I applaud you for your commitment to these New Year's resolutions. Your goal of self-improvement is admirable. But this year, consider giving that stale tradition a fresh twist.
This time, take a new direction — make a resolution with someone else in mind. I challenge you to commit to participating in community service this year. As with any New Year's resolution, choose a level of commitment with which you feel comfortable and hold yourself accountable.
You can start small — set aside one day of the year and participate in an event like Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service, Dance Marathon or Relay for Life. Make a bigger commitment to an alternative spring break trip with Carolina Service Council or another student organization.
Or step it up a notch and make service a part of your weekly routine by choosing to mentor a grade school student in after-school programs at the Waverly Center or tutor as a "lunch buddy" in Richland School District One.
Getting started doesn't have to be a hassle. USC's Community Service Programs website is a great resource for the ideas I've already mentioned and many more. Sign up for the Serve Carolina newsletter to get updates on service opportunities each week.
Find a service opportunity that matches your career goals or interests. Interning for a non-profit organization can help you practice leadership, communication and business skills. Or choose to connect with a unique passion, like working with animals at Pets Inc. or in the great outdoors with Keep the Midlands Beautiful.
Although your resolution will be made with selfless intentions, you'll find that you still reap rewards. You'll meet new people, learn about your own strengths and weaknesses and gain a sense of pride and accomplishment. Or your reward may be as simple as a warm smile of gratitude from someone you've helped.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, "Everybody can be great because everybody can serve." Gamecocks, join me this year in resolving to be greater by committing to changing the community through service.
