The best way I have been able to assist my community is through volunteering. For as long as I can remember I have helped to: prevent flooding in vulnerable neighborhoods by raising sandbag barriers, allocate food to those in need at church and in my town's food pantry, and make a safer and more pleasant outdoor environment by removing trash around roads where people are the most prone to littering. Contributing to all of these undertakings has been fulfilling, but none so much as food distribution. As someone who has grown up receiving food donations because my family was, at times, unable to afford more than a package of bologna and processed cheese, I empathize the most with fellow community members struggling to obtain fresh, nourishing food. Now that we are a lot better off, I strive to serve the good quality food and hygiene products I wish I could have had. While foodbanks may have a reputation for providing mostly "junk food", this has vastly improved because of the efforts of communities. Having enough volunteers and grocery stores willing to donate perishables, instead of tossing the surplus, allows everyone seeking to resolve food insecurity the best chance possible. When everyone has their basic needs met, everyone can give their best back to the community.

Improving Physical Health- Eating more balanced meals, staying hydrated, and exercising helps me feel accomplished and alleviates distracting physical discomfort. Listening to Music- Whether I'm doing so to get my body to release comforting endorphins or to help me focus on whatever task I'm trying to complete, listening to my favorite music always helps. Socializing- It's easy to forget how taxing isolation can be on mental health. Checking in with friends on social media or going out and having small talk with strangers are quick ways to reconnect with humanity after a while of studying alone. Engaging in Hobbies- Learning a new song on my ukulele, refining my drawing skills, baking a treat, reading, and even just singing while doing chores all remind me of my passions and the beauty there is to be derived from life. Philosophizing- As a philosophy major, I do this a lot in school, but pondering reality and morality is something that can be done wherever and whenever. Asking big questions and breaking down the reasons I have for certain beliefs helps to make me to feel grounded. Observing Nature- Going outside and taking in whatever scenery is accessible to me is extremely relaxing. I have seen many different geographical features from around the United States, but no matter where I am, there are beautiful sights to behold everywhere. Watching Television/ YouTube- Becoming immersed in an entertaining story for any amount of time is always a welcome form of escapism for me. Not only is it fun, but there is something to learn from every story. Truly, viewing hypothetical conflicts from an outside perspective has sharpened my critical thinking skills in a very unique way. Fighting Social Issues- There are many political systems and societal attitudes that impact the rights and livelihoods of my friends and I. It can often feel discouraging and as though we are unwanted in the world, but speaking out about our struggles (without becoming too focused on the negatives), can be incredibly empowering for us. Having a Positive Mindset- When life becomes stressful: my school assignments are adding up, I'm worried about my relationships, I'm stressed about the future, etc., I remind myself that no matter the outcome, I am deserving of happiness. If the worst-case scenario happens, I am always able to adapt and learn from the experience. Not being perfect doesn't make me, or anyone else, a failure.