To my fellow Kent State readers, 

I am excited to announce I will be your newest advice columnist for KSUBuzz. Each week I hope to give you the best possible advice for all of the problems and questions you have in life. Feel free to ask me anything – regarding friends, any bad habits, your personal life… you name it! Keep in mind these questions will be kept anonymous when printed, so don’t be shy!

I decided to give you some unsolicited advice to start off this first week to benefit all and give you a chance to get to know me. I use this advice daily to get through all of my struggles.

1. First thing’s first! Don’t let someone tell you what you hope to accomplish can’t be done. Sure, this can go back to the saying that anything is possible, but you need to really believe in yourself before you can get things accomplished. I had this issue come up last semester when I was faced with multiple extra activities and jobs all at once. A few people told me I was going to be too busy and have no time for anything, but I managed my time very well and accomplished all that I had planned, plus more. If anything, being more involved has helped me in more ways than I thought. 

2. Surround yourself with only people who want to impact your life in a positive way. There’s no need to keep those around who are trying to put you down. Say adios and hang out with those you can laugh and enjoy your time with. After all, a good laugh makes you happy and healthier. 

3. Don’t be afraid to try something new, if it will involve working extra hard. If you want something done, you’re going to have to try a bit harder, but being lazy instead of going the extra mile should NEVER be the reason why something doesn’t get accomplished. After all, working a bit harder will make you a stronger person in the end, and you’ll be proud of yourself. 

4. Last, try and make a goal for yourself this semester. This can be anything from you want to stop drinking, telling yourself you won’t skip class or you want to make the Dean’s List. I guarantee creating and accomplishing a goal will make you very happy. That’s what I did last year, and I continued ever since. 

I can’t wait to start answering the rest of your questions! Have a great start to the new semester. 

                    XOXO,

                             — Mel